Peter Obi Urges FG: Stop the Destruction of Citizens’ Property

The Labour Party’s 2023 presidential contender, Mr. Peter Obi, has vehemently denounced the relentless demolition of private properties by government entities across Nigeria. He emphasized that the actions of state governments are particularly reprehensible, especially considering that many of these demolitions occur without any prior notification.

In a recent post on his X social media platform, Obi articulated, “I wish to emphatically reiterate my profound disapproval of the deliberate destruction of individuals’ assets and possessions by authorities at any level without appropriate warning.

“The recent razing of citizens’ edifices, coupled with the obliteration of their goods and wares, is unequivocally condemnable.

An administration whose policies have ensnared millions of Nigerians in poverty over the past 29 months ought to exhibit compassion towards its populace.

“This crisis is unfolding nationwide at a time when the government should be endeavoring to elevate its citizens from poverty; instead, it is thrusting them further into despair.

“These demolitions obliterate livelihoods, cripple businesses, and jeopardize the economic stability of diligent citizens.

“Numerous shops housed commodities valued in the billions of Naira, embodying years of investment and hard labor. What legal justification exists for the destruction of private property—clearly not utilized for illicit activities—without prior notice or adherence to due process?

“We must question: are these actions truly serving the public good, or are they arbitrary and disproportionate displays of power? Citizens rightfully deserve safeguarding for their investments, livelihoods, and dignity.

“The government must guarantee that urban development and regulatory enforcement honor the rule of law and respect the rights of the populace.

“Meanwhile, these demolition practices convey a stark warning to entrepreneurs throughout the nation and beyond: that their perseverance and sacrifices can be obliterated in an instant.”

“If we neglect to confront such injustices, we jeopardize the very bedrock of economic progression and societal stability. Every citizen possesses the right to construct a life through legitimate labor, and that right must never be violated.”