By John Umeh
Former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, on Tuesday, September 30, paid a solidarity visit to the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex in Ojo, where a wave of demolitions has left thousands of traders devastated.
Obi, accompanied by Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe and other political figures, was received by a large crowd of distressed traders and youth who gathered to narrate their losses. At least 19 major buildings were reportedly demolished in the exercise, destroying shops and goods worth billions of naira.
The demolitions, which have sparked widespread protests, were carried out despite traders’ claims that their structures had valid approvals from the Trade Fair Management Board. Many accused the Lagos State Government of targeting their businesses unfairly and called for federal intervention.
Speaking after the visit, Obi described the situation as “a test of impunity, justice, and compassion,” urging government agencies to act with fairness and empathy. He commended the traders for their restraint despite their huge losses and called on authorities to investigate the circumstances surrounding the demolitions to prevent a recurrence.
Senator Abaribe also expressed solidarity with the affected traders, pledging support for a legislative inquiry into the matter. Other dignitaries present at the visit included Senator Victor Umeh, Col. Austin Akobundu (rtd), Hon. Tony Nwoye, Labour Party’s Lagos State governorship candidate Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, and key members of the Obidient Movement.
Obi noted that many of the victims had taken loans and invested heavily in the demolished structures, warning that such actions undermine entrepreneurship and economic growth. “A society that seeks progress must protect enterprise, encourage productivity, and defend the dignity of its citizens,” he stated.
The visit ended with calls for immediate relief measures for the displaced traders and a review of demolition policies to ensure due process and fairness in the future.
