Obi Condemns Demolition of Citizens’ Properties, Calls for Compassionate Governance

Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi, has strongly condemned the indiscriminate demolition of citizens’ properties by government authorities, describing the action as unjustifiable and insensitive.

In a statement posted on his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle, Obi decried the destruction of shops, homes, and businesses without prior notice, especially amid the current economic hardship confronting millions of Nigerians.

“I reiterate my strong condemnation of the willful destruction of people’s property and goods by governments at any level without notice,” Obi stated. “The recent demolition of citizens’ structures and the destruction of their goods and merchandise remain condemnable.”

He questioned the legality and morality of such actions, arguing that they serve no genuine public interest. According to him, demolitions carried out without due process “destroy livelihoods, undermine businesses, and threaten the economic security of hardworking citizens.”

Obi further lamented that instead of implementing policies that would lift citizens out of poverty, government actions are worsening their economic woes.

“At a time when the government is supposed to be lifting citizens out of poverty, it is instead plunging them deeper into hardship,” he said.

The former Anambra State governor warned that such acts of demolition discourage both local and foreign investors, as they project instability and disregard for private enterprise.

He urged leaders at all levels to demonstrate empathy in governance and to prioritise the welfare of citizens.

“If we fail to stand against such injustices, we risk undermining the very foundations of economic growth and social stability. Every citizen has the right to build a life through honest work, and that right must never be trampled,” Obi added.