Peter Obi Reacts to Kano Structure Demolition

Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate, has criticized the ongoing destruction of structures in Kano State, where Governor Yusuf initiated the demolition of buildings built within government-owned landed properties.

This initiative has caused public outrage, as many of the impacted buildings were built under Public Private Partnership (PPP) agreements.

Obi condemned the Kano government’s actions on Twitter, highlighting Nigeria’s perplexing housing crisis and unmet housing demands.

Some residents have turned to building buildings for their homes, companies, and workplaces, often with local authorities’ knowledge or agreement.

Obi acknowledged that some demolitions may be appropriate, but emphasized the importance of compassion and compassionate treatment for those affected.

He urged government officials to implement rules while considering the human component and displaying appropriate sensitivity.

Peter Obi:

Recently, there have been reports of widespread government demolition of so-called ‘illegal’ structures erected by some innocent Nigerian citizens in error. We face a paradox: with a 70 million housing deficit and vast unmet housing needs nationwide, some resort to self-help of building structures that serve as homes, businesses, SMEs offices and stores. Invariably, some of these structures were either not approved or were built with the tacit collusion or approval of the local authorities.

While some of these ongoing demolitions may be excusable, they have nonetheless, left many victims, mostly ordinary people who erred innocently or were ill-informed or misguided. Necessary corrective measures to planning or zoning violations by governments, need not be punitive or unduly insensitive. There should always be room for compassion and humane correction in taking any remedial action. I respectfully appeal to various governmental authorities to marry the need to enforce compliance with extant regulatory regimes, with consideration for human feelings and necessary compassion. In Nigeria, we live in a time of extreme difficulties for citizens because of stagnated income, spiraling inflation, huge unemployment escalating socio-economic costs and high costs of living.

Nigerian citizens should therefore, not be subjected to the additional stress of unexpected hardship. Moreover, the various concerned governments should consider paying compensation to those who have lost properties and livelihood in these unfortunate demolitions to ameliorate their suffering. Such compensation should fall under the rubric of eminent domain that is applicable for properties and assets acquired or demolished in the public interest.

It cannot ever be overemphasized that the primary duty of any government is the responsibility to care for and protect her citizens.

Recently, there have been reports of widespread government demolition of so-called ‘illegal’ structures erected by some innocent Nigerian citizens in error. We face a paradox: with a 70 million housing deficit and vast unmet housing needs nationwide,

— Peter Obi (@PeterObi) June 27, 2023