The Lagos State government has demolished 19 buildings at the New Mandela Plaza within the Trade Fair Complex, sparking outrage among traders who claim they received no prior notice. The demolition took place under heavy security, with personnel from the Lagos State Task Force and other tactical teams present to enforce the operation.
Traders expressed confusion and frustration, with many unaware of the reasons behind the demolitions. Some speculated that the buildings were marked for being too close to a canal. Affected shop owners reported that their investments, valued at over N150 million each, were destroyed without warning.
One trader, Chief Magnus Ike, emphasized that he had federal approval for his structure, claiming that he had not received any notice from the state government. He criticized the sudden nature of the demolition, stating that due process demands notice before such actions are taken.
In response to the traders’ complaints, Jubril Gawat, Senior Special Assistant on New Media to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, confirmed the demolition was aimed at targeting “illegal developments” and structures lacking statutory approvals. He stated that the government could no longer allow unapproved constructions that block critical infrastructure and endanger lives.
Following the uproar, the Lagos State Government has ordered a halt to the demolition and ongoing constructions, with plans for a meeting between market leaders and government officials scheduled for next week.
