The Labour Party caucus in the House of Representatives has condemned the demolition of a property belonging to a brother of the Labour Party Presidential Candidate in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi, describing the incident as “deeply disturbing.”
The property, located in Ikeja, Lagos, was reportedly brought down on Tuesday under controversial circumstances.
In a statement on Wednesday, Leader of the LP caucus in the House, Afam Ogene, called on the Lagos State Government and the All Progressives Congress-led administration to ensure that no harm comes to Obi or his business interests, given his role as a key opposition figure.
Ogene, who spoke on behalf of other LP lawmakers, noted that the demolition was reportedly carried out following a court order obtained under unclear circumstances, adding that neither the property owners nor any other party was said to be aware of the order, as it was not issued in anyone’s name.
He condemned the apparent misuse of the judiciary, stating that it undermines democratic principles and has no place in a civilised society.
The statement read, “The development aligns with the recent alarm raised by Obi about a covert attack on him and his businesses, on account of his courage in contesting the last presidential election and consistency in highlighting the nation’s widespread hardship and increasing level of insecurity.
“Partisan politics shouldn’t breed anguish, pain, or sorrow to anyone. Politics should be free from bitterness and actions that harm others physically, economically, or psychologically, particularly when the goal is to serve the people’s interests.”
He described Obi as “a staunch democrat” who has consistently advocated transparency, integrity, and nation-building, noting that his wide support across ethnic and political lines stemmed from his empathy for the masses.
“Peter Obi’s unwavering empathy for the downtrodden and suffering masses has earned him widespread admiration across ethnic, religious, and party lines.
“Therefore, his and his family’s legitimate economic and social investments should be protected, just like those of every law-abiding citizen, and not ruined by undemocratic forces driven by partisan politics and bitterness,” he added.
Obi, in a statement following the incident, also decried what he described as “coordinated lawlessness” in Nigeria.
Obi said, “I know what I have been going through as a person in abuse of my human rights just because I contested a Presidential election which I have legitimate rights to do. So I imagine what small business owners, regular citizens, and vulnerable communities face every day. I
“If this level of lawlessness can happen to someone with a registered company and legitimate means, what hope does the ordinary Nigerian have?”
