The Lagos state government has reacted to the news making the rounds alleging Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of ordering the demolition and seizure of properties in Lekki area.
Earlier today, some landlords in Lekki area flayed Governit Sanwo-Olu over illegal seizure and demolition of properties without following due process and prior consultation.
In a statement issued, they described the demolition as being unfair and uncalled for as the properties in question were legally acquired.
The statement reads, “It is no longer news that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has announced pans for the construction of a regional road that will link Lekk-Epe expressway at Victoria Garden City (VGC) junction to Freedom Way in Eti-Osa, on the island of Lagos State.
“It is strange that in the 21st Century, a democratically elected government will arbitrarily seize people’s properties without due process, full negotiation and compensation, even when interest in such properties were duly registered at the Lagos state Government”.
The property owners vowed to defend and protect their interest in the properties which they said was being forcefully encroached upon by the Lagos state Government.
They quoted Section 2 of the 2016 Lagos State Properties Protection Law as their defence.
They also pointed out Section 43 and 44(1) of the 1999 Constitution which stipulates the right to own property and the prohibition of seizure of property without legal authority and compensation.
The statement reads further, ” It is a known fact that government may have right to make use of private property where there is overriding public interest, but there are legal steps that should be followed under the Land Use Act, before such acquisition can take effect.
“The Sanwo-Olu led administration has deliberately failed to take into consideration the interest of property owners.
“It is quite ironical that the Lagos first citizen would rather overlook the rights of property owners simply because he wants to impress on his performance, using an over-hyped regional road.
“This action amount to unjustifiable use of power by a democratically elected governor, who it is within its purview to ensure peace and security of lives and properties”.
When contacted by theparrot.ng, Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotosho, said that was not possible that the state will approve the demolition/seizure of a structure without prior notice or following due process as being reported.
On the genuineness and legal backing of the affected properties, Omotosho directed our reporter to to the Ministry of land for further investigation.
He said” it is not enough for journalists to sit in the comfort of their room to start seeking reaction on an issue. Let them go to necessary quarters and investigate the matter to get the truth”
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