Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has issued a strong condemnation of recent government-led demolitions across Nigeria, describing the destruction of citizens’ property and livelihoods as unjust, economically harmful, and lacking due process.
In a public statement, Obi criticized the actions of various government authorities for what he called “willful destruction of people’s property and goods without notice,” warning that such measures deepen poverty and erode public trust in governance.
“The recent demolition of citizens’ structures and the destruction of their goods and merchandise remains condemnable,” Obi said. “An administration whose policies and style have sent several million Nigerians into poverty in 29 months should show compassion for its citizens.”
The demolitions, which have reportedly affected small businesses and residential structures, come at a time when Nigeria is grappling with rising inflation, unemployment, and economic instability. Obi argued that instead of alleviating hardship, the government is exacerbating it.
“These demolitions destroy livelihoods, undermine businesses, and threaten the economic security of hardworking citizens,” he said, noting that many of the affected shops contained goods worth billions of naira, representing years of investment and toil.
Obi questioned the legal and moral justification for such actions, especially when properties are not linked to criminal activity. “What legal authority justifies the destruction of private property—clearly not used for criminal purposes—without prior notice or due process?” he asked.
He urged authorities to reflect on whether these actions serve the public interest or represent arbitrary exercises of power. “Citizens deserve protection for their investments, livelihoods, and dignity,” he said. “Urban development and enforcement must respect the rule of law and the rights of the people.”
Obi also warned that the demolitions send a “chilling message” to entrepreneurs and investors, both domestic and international, that their efforts can be erased overnight. “If we fail to stand against such injustices, we risk undermining the very foundations of economic growth and social stability,” he said.
He concluded by reaffirming the right of every citizen to build a life through honest work, stating that this right “must never be trampled.”
