The Lagos State Government has faulted Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, over his comments on the demolition of structures at the Lagos Trade Fair Complex, accusing him of misleading the public and engaging in “emotional theatrics.”
In a statement on Wednesday, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, said the demolished buildings had no government approval, despite several opportunities given to owners to regularise their documents.
“The owners of the building have no approval. They got ample time to regularise their papers when the state government declared last year a general amnesty, which was extended several times. The owners shunned the offer,” Omotoso said.
He alleged that officials of the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development were assaulted when they attempted to inspect the site, and that the property owners ignored invitations for dialogue.
Omotoso stressed that the Trade Fair Management Board, established by the Federal Government, had no authority to grant building approvals, noting that physical planning falls under the jurisdiction of state governments.
Quoting a 2003 Supreme Court judgment in the case of Attorney-General of Lagos State v. Attorney-General of the Federation, Omotoso said states retained the right to regulate land use and development control within their territories, including on federal lands, except in areas such as military formations and exclusive federal enclaves.
“The Trade Fair Complex Board may manage leases, tenancies, and commercial activities, but any construction, alteration, or development still requires Lagos State planning permit. Otherwise, such developments would be deemed illegal,” he said.
The commissioner dismissed Obi’s claim that the state lacked authority to enforce its laws at the Trade Fair Complex, describing his remarks as politically motivated.
“Mr. Obi launched into emotional theatrics, describing the incident as a test of impunity, justice and compassion — all in an effort to mislead the public by misinformation and disinformation. This is unfair,” Omotoso added.
