‘You cannot seduce foreign investors when you destroy the business with impunity’ —OBI tells Lagos Govt

The presidential candidate from the Labor Party (LP) in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi, has condemned the new demolition from the Aspamda market in the international trade exhibition complex by the Lagos state government, saying such actions will prevent international investors from entering the country.

The state government, last week, began the demolition of a new shopping center in the complex, quoting several violations by the owner including not getting the right permission to build a mall.

In the midst of protests that took part in demolition training, the former Governor of the State Anambra visited the site on Tuesday where he regretted the government’s actions.

In a statement that he posted on the Handwood X verified on Tuesday night, Obi said the demolition of the trade show complex was carried out with impunity without thinking about the owner.

The statement titled “Demolition of Lagos Trade Exhibition: Impunity, Justice and Compassion Tests”, said Obi

“Today, Alongside Senators Enyinnaya Abaribe, Victor Umeh, Col. Austin Akobundu, Tony Nwoye, Honuurable Members of the House of Representatives, Segun Sowonmi, George Adegeye, Labor Party Lagos State Governorial Candidate Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Tanko Yunusa, We Visited the Site of the Demolished Aspamda Market at a trade show in Lagos, where Plazas was pulled down even though traders had obtained the necessary approval.

“I have to praise traders for their extraordinary restraints and calm in dealing with so painful losses. I am equally respecting the senators and members of the House of Representatives who have promised to investigate this problem thoroughly and convey conditions that lead to this unfavorable development, and most importantly, ensuring that the situation does not occur in the future.

“Outside of this direct case, I urge the government at all levels to act with compassion, justice, and deep sense of justice, especially in this difficult time.

“Many traders are affected by large -scale investment – often through loans – with the hope of securing their livelihoods and contributing to a wider economy.

“To destroy such legitimate investment without legal proceedings is not only unfair but also economically destructive.

“A society that seeks to make progress must protect the company, encourage productivity, and maintain the dignity of its citizens. Incidents like this should not have a place in a country that aspires for justice, stability, and joint prosperity.”