KEY POINTS

• Peter Obi condemns “inhumane” demolitions worsening poverty.
• He says demolitions destroy livelihoods and investments.
• Obi urges government to respect citizens’ property rights.

Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has criticised government agencies across Nigeria for what he described as the “willful and inhumane” demolition of citizens’ properties and goods.

In a statement released Monday, Obi said that many of these exercises occurred without notice or due process, worsening economic hardship for ordinary Nigerians already struggling under inflation and unemployment.

Inhumane demolitions worsen citizens’ hardship

Obi noted that millions have slipped into poverty due to harsh policies, arguing that demolition campaigns further punish struggling citizens instead of offering relief.
He said an administration that has “sent several million Nigerians into poverty in 29 months should show compassion, not cruelty.”

Furthermore, the former Anambra governor described the loss as devastating, citing billions of naira in goods and properties destroyed, investments representing years of hard work and sacrifice.
“These demolitions destroy livelihoods, undermine businesses, also threaten the economic security of hardworking citizens,” he said.

Obi demands respect for due process in demolitions

Questioning the legal and moral basis of the actions, Obi asked whether the demolitions serve public interest or simply reflect an arbitrary use of power.
He also urged all levels of government to ensure that enforcement measures respect citizens’ rights and the rule of law.

“Citizens deserve protection for their investments, livelihoods, and dignity,” Obi said, while adding that the actions send a “chilling message” to entrepreneurs whose efforts could be erased overnight.

In conclusion, he warned that unchecked demolitions could damage social stability and weaken the economy. “If we fail to stand against such injustices,” he further cautioned, “we risk undermining the very foundations of economic growth and social cohesion.”