The Labour Party (LP) caucus in the House of Representatives has strongly condemned the demolition of a property reportedly belonging to a brother of Peter Obi, the party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general election.
The building, located in Ikeja, Lagos, was razed on Tuesday under circumstances the LP lawmakers described as “deeply disturbing” and politically motivated.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Leader of the LP caucus in the House, Honourable Afam Ogene, called on the Lagos State Government and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to ensure the safety of Obi, his family, and their legitimate business interests.
Ogene alleged that the demolition was executed based on a court order obtained “under unclear circumstances.”
According to him, neither the property owners nor any affected parties were properly informed, and the order was reportedly not issued in the name of any individual or entity.
“We condemn in strong terms what appears to be a troubling misuse of judicial processes. Actions like these not only erode public confidence in the justice system but also threaten the very foundation of our democracy,” Ogene stated.
He further linked the incident to recent claims by Obi that he and his business interests were under covert attack, allegedly due to his role as a major opposition figure.
“Partisan politics should not inflict physical, economic, or psychological harm. Politics must transcend bitterness, especially when its core objective is to serve the people,” Ogene said, describing Obi as “a staunch democrat” and a “symbol of empathy for the suffering masses.”
“Peter Obi’s nationwide appeal, cutting across ethnic and political divides, is rooted in his consistent advocacy for transparency, integrity, and inclusive governance. His family’s legitimate investments deserve protection like those of every law-abiding Nigerian citizen,” he said.
Peter Obi also responded to the demolition in a separate statement, denouncing what he called “coordinated lawlessness” in Nigeria.
“I know what I’ve endured personally—violations of my fundamental rights—simply for exercising my constitutional right to contest the presidency. If such treatment can be meted out to me, what hope exists for small business owners or vulnerable citizens?” Obi asked.
The incident has reignited conversations around the politicization of state institutions and the need for stronger safeguards to prevent abuse of power, especially against opposition figures.
Confidence Okwuchi