Peter Obi Criticises Demolition of Citizens’ Properties Without Prior Notice

The Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has criticised the demolition of citizens’ properties and businesses by government authorities without adequate notice.

In a statement shared on his verified X (formerly Twitter) account on Monday, Obi described the ongoing demolitions of shops, buildings, and other structures in different parts of the country as “unjustifiable” and “inhumane,” particularly amid worsening economic conditions.

He said, “I strongly condemn the deliberate destruction of people’s properties and livelihoods by any government without due notice. The recent demolitions and loss of citizens’ goods and investments remain deeply unacceptable.”

The former governor of Anambra State faulted the government’s actions, saying they have pushed millions further into poverty rather than providing relief.

“At a time when government should be creating opportunities to lift people out of poverty, it is instead driving them into greater hardship,” he wrote. “These demolitions destroy livelihoods, cripple small businesses, and threaten the economic stability of struggling Nigerians.”

Obi noted that many of the affected structures contained goods worth billions of naira — representing years of hard work and investment — and insisted that there is no lawful justification for such actions without due process or prior notification.

He further questioned whether the demolitions truly serve public interest or reflect “arbitrary and excessive use of power.”

According to him, such actions discourage local and foreign investors by creating uncertainty about property rights and business security.

“If we fail to oppose these injustices, we risk eroding the foundations of our economy and social stability,” Obi warned. “Every Nigerian has the right to build a decent life through honest work — a right that must be respected and protected.”