The Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy and Development (FENRAD) has condemned the recent demolition of shops and structures at the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex, describing the action as unlawful, economically oppressive, and a grave threat to Igbo traders who dominate business activities in the area.
In a statement issued on Sunday by its Executive Director, Nelson Nnanna Nwafor, FENRAD said the demolition was carried out without due process, in clear violation of the 1978 Land Use Act and relevant physical planning regulations.
According to the group, Section 28 of the Land Use Act stipulates that government may only revoke rights of occupancy for overriding public interest — and even then, such revocation must follow lawful procedure, with adequate notice and compensation to affected owners.
“No transparent process, public hearing, or formal notice was shown to have preceded this demolition,” FENRAD said, adding that the action amounted to an abuse of regulatory authority.
The rights group further noted that the Lagos State Urban and Regional Planning and Development Law requires prior consultation with stakeholders, environmental impact assessments, and compensation frameworks before any structural removal or redevelopment activity can occur. “These procedures were entirely circumvented,” the statement added.
Ethnic, economic targeting
FENRAD expressed concern that the demolition disproportionately affected traders of southeastern origin, most of whom have operated legitimate businesses at the complex for decades.
The group warned that such acts could fuel perceptions of ethno-economic marginalization and undermine national unity.
“This demolition not only violates legal norms—it destroys lives, families, and inter-ethnic trust,” Nwafor said. “The law is clear: no citizen should be rendered economically homeless without due process.”
FENRAD’s demands
The organization called for an independent investigation into the legality of the demolition, full compensation to affected traders and property owners, and an immediate moratorium on further demolitions pending investigation outcomes.
It also demanded public disclosure of any redevelopment plans, including their environmental and social impact assessments, and accountability for public officials and agencies involved in the exercise.
Appeal to Sanwo-Olu
While acknowledging Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s efforts to promote urban development and inclusivity in Lagos, FENRAD urged him to suspend all demolition activities at the Trade Fair Complex and ensure justice and compensation for victims.
The group also called on civil society organizations, human rights defenders, and the National Assembly to intervene and uphold the constitutional and economic rights of all Nigerians, regardless of ethnicity or place of residence.
