Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, Mr. Peter Obi, has strongly criticized the ongoing demolition of private properties across Nigeria, calling the actions “willful destruction” that deepen the suffering of already impoverished citizens.
In a statement released over the weekend, Obi particularly referenced demolition exercises carried out by the Lagos State Government, which continued in parts of the city amid widespread public outcry.
“I reiterate my strong condemnation of the willful destruction of people’s property and goods by governments at any level without prior notice,” Obi said.
The former Anambra State governor described the demolitions as deeply troubling, especially at a time when many Nigerians are struggling with economic hardship and rising poverty. He argued that such actions not only destroy livelihoods but also send a discouraging message to small business owners and entrepreneurs.
“These demolitions destroy livelihoods, undermine businesses, and threaten the economic security of hardworking citizens. Many of these shops contained goods worth billions of Naira, representing years of investment and toil,” he noted.
Obi questioned the legal and moral grounds of these demolitions, asking whether they truly serve the public interest or are simply arbitrary uses of state power. He stressed the importance of upholding due process and respecting the rights of citizens.
“What legal authority justifies the destruction of private property clearly not used for criminal purposes without prior notice or due process?” he asked.
Calling for more humane governance, Obi emphasized that government actions should aim to alleviate, not worsen, the burdens of the people.
“An administration whose policies and style have sent several million Nigerians into poverty in just 29 months should show compassion for its citizens. Every citizen has the right to build a life through honest work, and that right must never be trampled,” he added.
Obi urged all levels of government to adopt development strategies that prioritize human dignity, legal process, and economic stability, warning that continued disregard for these principles risks long-term damage to social cohesion and national progress.