Group Raises Alarm Over Threat to Traders’ Rights in Trade Fair Demolitions

A non-profit organisation, Spaces for Change, has condemned the recent demolition of structures at the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex, describing the exercise as a violation of traders’ economic rights.

In a statement issued after a visit to the site, the group expressed concern that the demolition, which began on September 25, 2025, targeted plazas, malls, shops, and other business premises without proper consultation or notice to stakeholders.

“We demand justice for the unconstitutional destruction of several business premises in the Complex,” the statement read. The organisation argued that the exercise, carried out under the directive of the Lagos State Government, was justified on claims of illegal developments, lack of approvals, and defective structures, but said its findings contradicted those claims.

According to Spaces for Change, victims presented building approvals issued by the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex Management Board (LITFCMB) through the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing — approvals which, it noted, call into question the state government’s assertions. The group stressed that under the LITFCMB Act of 1993, the Federal Government has authority to administer the Complex and grant leases to investors.

The organisation further alleged that protesters were harassed by security agents and non-state actors mobilised during the exercise, leaving some victims hospitalised and in distress. It described the development as “economic sabotage” and a “brazen act of injustice” against legitimate business owners.

The group urged the Lagos State Government to halt the exercise, compensate affected traders, and collaborate with the Federal Board to avoid future conflicts. It insisted that those responsible must be held accountable, warning that failure to act decisively would undermine confidence in the rule of law and discourage investments in the state.

Meanwhile, the Lagos State Government confirmed on Thursday that the demolitions were aimed at removing illegal developments, defective structures, and buildings erected on road setbacks and drainage channels.

According to the Senior Special Assistant on New Media to the Governor, Jubril Gawat, the operation was carried out jointly by officials from the Ministry of Physical Planning, Lagos State Building Control Agency, Lagos State Urban Renewal Agency, Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority, and other relevant agencies, alongside security personnel and lawmakers.