The Transparency Initiative Project (TIP) has criticized former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi for what it calls an unnecessary attempt to involve the Lagos State Government in the controversy surrounding the demolition of a property belonging to his brother, without verifying the facts.
In a statement on his X account, Obi expressed outrage over the incident, claiming it reflects a broader pattern of impunity and disregard for the rule of law in the country. He alleged that the building was demolished without notice, a court order, or any engagement with the rightful owner.
In response, the Lagos State Government swiftly denied any involvement in the demolition of the property located in Ikeja. They stated that neither the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) nor any other branch of the government executed the demolition.
During a press conference on Monday in Lagos, the group’s convener, Yemen Ngutor, condemned the incident and expressed concern over Obi’s allegations. Ngutor emphasized that it was troubling for Peter Obi to make such claims without verifying the facts first.
He insisted that before making unsubstantiated accusations and suggesting that the demolition had political motivations, Obi should have verified who authorized the demolition.
Ngutor praised the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) for its prompt denial, which was issued in a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, and supported by Dr. Olajide Abiodun Babatunde, the Special Adviser on e-GIS and Urban Development, under whose supervision LASBCA operates. They confirmed that the agency had no involvement in the matter.
“We join other concerned Lagosians and Nigerians who are worried about the demolition of Peter Obi’s brother’s property in Ikeja. However, we are also troubled by unverified accusations that seem to implicate the state government in the controversy. It is concerning that a person of Obi’s stature would not confirm the facts with the authorities before trying to involve the state in his brother’s issues.
“It seems premature and superficial to suggest political motives in this matter without waiting for investigations to conclude. We believe that Mr. Peter Obi has misstepped this time.
“Unfortunately, Obi’s statement resonated with his supporters, who may believe that the Labour Party candidate in the 2023 presidential election is a target of systemic intimidation. We urge Obi’s supporters to verify the facts and refrain from blindly promoting every claim put forth by politicians.
“We applaud the Lagos State Government for promptly launching an inquiry into the controversy, and we welcome the fact that Peter Obi’s brother has taken the issue to court to challenge the demolition. We can follow the proceedings and await the outcome.
“The administration led by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has demonstrated exceptional capacity across various sectors in Lagos and has prioritized infrastructural development. We are confident that he will not support any form of illegality that could hinder the development of Nigeria’s commercial capital, now or in the future, whether for personal or political reasons,” Ngutor emphasized.
In a rebuttal to Peter Obi’s claims, Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, stated:
“We find it alarming that Mr. Peter Obi would make such accusations without verifying the facts.
“The Lagos State Government is committed to upholding the rule of law and ensuring the safety and security of all residents. We will not tolerate any acts of lawlessness or violations of existing laws. Any individual or group found to be involved in such actions will be held accountable.
“We urge the public to disregard Mr. Peter Obi’s allegations and to rest assured that the Lagos State Government will continue to work tirelessly to maintain law and order in our great state,” the Lagos Government said.
“We will not be swayed by baseless claims or attempts to undermine our efforts,” Omotoso concluded.