Peter Obi Criticizes Nationwide Demolitions, Calls for Empathy in Urban Enforcement
Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr Peter Obi, has condemned the ongoing demolition of properties across several Nigerian states, describing the actions as economically counterproductive and socially insensitive amid worsening economic hardship.
In a statement issued on Monday through his verified X account, Obi criticised what he termed the “unjustifiable destruction” of citizens’ livelihoods without due legal process or adequate notice. He argued that the widespread demolitions reflect a governance approach that prioritises enforcement over empathy and economic stability.
“The recent demolition of citizens’ structures and the destruction of their goods and merchandise remain condemnable,” he stated. “At a time when the government should be creating opportunities and lifting citizens out of poverty, it is instead deepening economic pain.”
Demolitions and Economic Consequences
In recent months, several state governments have embarked on large-scale clearance operations, citing urban renewal, environmental restoration, and illegal development control as justifications. However, these exercises have drawn sharp criticism for their alleged disregard for due process and failure to provide compensation or relocation alternatives.
Obi noted that many affected properties house small and medium-sized businesses with inventories and assets worth billions of naira. He warned that such actions undermine entrepreneurship, discourage long-term investment, and could deter both local and foreign investors concerned about the security of property rights in Nigeria.
“Demolitions that disregard the rule of law and basic human empathy destroy livelihoods and erode trust in government institutions,” Obi said. “They send a troubling signal to investors that property rights are negotiable, not guaranteed.”
Governance, Urban Policy, and Public Trust
Obi’s remarks come amid growing debate over how Nigerian cities manage rapid urbanization and development control. While government authorities often cite the need to reclaim drainage channels, clear illegal structures, and restore planning integrity, critics argue that such policies have become reactive rather than reformative addressing symptoms instead of systemic failures in urban planning and housing regulation.
For policymakers and real estate stakeholders, the issue underscores the urgent need for clear land administration, transparent urban renewal frameworks, and policies that balance enforcement with human impact. Uncoordinated demolitions not only displace thousands but also weaken confidence in state-led development initiatives.
The Need for Long-Term Urban Reform
Obi urged federal and state authorities to adopt governance approaches that align with long-term economic stability and sustainable development goals. He emphasised that urban enforcement should be rooted in empathy, legal fairness, and economic reasoning, not reactionary measures that exacerbate poverty.
“The right to earn a living through honest work is fundamental,” he said. “Governments must protect, not punish, citizens striving to build a life.”
As Nigeria continues to pursue large-scale infrastructure and urban expansion projects, experts warn that maintaining investor confidence will depend on transparent urban governance, respect for property rights, and consistent enforcement of planning regulations guided by the rule of law rather than discretion.
