A rights and advocacy group, 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.
The group also expressed concern over what it described as the country’s rising unemployment, inflation, and insecurity as Nigeria marked its 65th Independence anniversary, urging the Federal Government to take urgent action to address the challenges.
In a statement issued on Saturday by its Executive Director, Nelson Nnanna Nwafor, FENRAD questioned the legality of the demolition, describing it as a violation of the Land Use Act, physical planning regulations, and the rights of traders—many of whom, the group noted, are of Igbo origin.
“FENRAD strongly condemns the recent demolition of shops and structures at the Trade Fair Complex in Lagos, describing the action as unlawful, economically oppressive, and a serious threat to Igbo traders who form the majority of the business community in that market,” the statement read.
The group alleged that the exercise was carried out without due process, contravening key provisions of the 1978 Land Use Act, which requires lawful revocation of occupancy rights, prior notice, and adequate compensation to affected property owners.
According to Nwafor, there was no proper communication, transparent process, public hearing, or formal notice before the demolition.
He further alleged that the Lagos State Urban and Regional Planning and Development Law was violated, as no environmental impact consultations with stakeholders were conducted prior to the exercise.
“These procedures were entirely circumvented in this incident, amounting to a gross abuse of regulatory authority,” he said.
Nwafor added that the demolition disproportionately affected traders from southeastern Nigeria who had built legitimate businesses over decades at the complex, warning that the action undermines the right to property, fair hearing, and economic participation.
He described it as “a dangerous signal of ethno-economic targeting” capable of eroding national cohesion and peace.
FENRAD demanded an immediate and independent investigation into the legality of the demolition, full compensation and restitution for all affected traders and property owners as mandated by the Land Use Act, and a moratorium on further demolitions pending the outcome of the investigation.
The group also called for public disclosure of redevelopment plans, including environmental and social impact assessments, and accountability for public officials and agencies involved in the exercise.
“While FENRAD acknowledges past efforts by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to improve urban infrastructure and promote inclusivity in Lagos, we strongly urge him to intervene, suspend all demolition activities at the Trade Fair Complex, and ensure justice and compensation for the affected communities,” the statement added.
The group further lamented the worsening economic situation in the country, noting that the cost of living has become unbearable for many Nigerians.
“The cost of living is unbearable. Inflation is officially at 23.7% (April 2025), but the price of food, transport, rent, and energy has gone beyond what ordinary citizens can afford. The removal of the fuel subsidy, while fiscally necessary, was implemented without sufficient cushioning for the poor,” it said.
FENRAD blamed rising food inflation on insecurity, logistics breakdowns, and persistent power supply failures, warning that unless urgent steps are taken, the socio-economic hardship could deepen public discontent and threaten national stability.
