Our Reporter, Abuja
Former Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi, has described the demolition of plazas at the Lagos International Trade Fair complex as a “test of impunity, justice and compassion,” condemning the action as unjust and economically damaging.
Obi, who visited the site of the demolished Auto Spare Parts and Machinery Dealers Association (ASPAMDA) Market on Tuesday, was accompanied by prominent politicians including Senators Enyinnaya Abaribe, Victor Umeh, Col. Austin Akobundu (rtd), Tony Nwoye, members of the House of Representatives, Segun Sowonmi, George Adegeye, Labour Party’s 2023 Lagos governorship candidate Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, and Obidient Movement coordinator Tanko Yunusa.
The former Anambra governor lamented that the plazas were pulled down despite traders obtaining requisite approvals, stressing that many of the affected business owners had invested heavily, often through loans, to secure their livelihoods.
“To destroy such legitimate investments without due process is not only unjust but also economically destructive,” Obi said in a statement posted on his verified X handle.
He commended the restraint and calm displayed by traders in the face of their painful losses, while appreciating lawmakers who pledged to investigate the demolition and ensure such incidents do not recur.
Obi urged governments at all levels to act with compassion, fairness and justice, especially in difficult economic times.
“A society that seeks to make progress must protect enterprise, encourage productivity, and defend the dignity of its citizens. Incidents like this should have no place in a nation that aspires to fairness, stability, and shared prosperity,” he stated.
