PHOTOS: HEAVY SECURITY AS LAGOS GOVT DEMOLISHES OVER 19 BUILDINGS AT TRADE FAIR PLAZA
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By Sunmisola Shodayo
On Thursday, more than 19 structures were dismantled at the New Mandela Plaza, located within the renowned Trade Fair Complex in Lagos, as the state administration deployed significant security measures to undertake an extensive demolition operation.
The media noted that the demolition was executed under stringent security, with a convoy of vehicles from the Lagos State Task Force, Rapid Response Squad, and tactical units positioned around the plaza. The formidable officers limited access to the area and directed traders attempting to document the operation to leave.
At the time this report was compiled, selected buildings within the plaza had already been reduced to debris, inciting anger from shopkeepers who asserted that they had not received prior notification.
One trader, who spoke cautiously to reporters, remarked: “We don’t even know the reason for the demolition. That’s why you see people moving up and down, asking questions.” Another suggested that the impacted structures may have been designated for demolition due to their proximity to a canal.
A visibly distressed plaza owner, who arrived as his shop was being demolished, shouted from his vehicle that no prior notice had been provided before the bulldozers arrived. Several sales representatives expressed their disappointment that their employers’ merchandise, still secured within the stores, was destroyed alongside the structures.
The press learned from disheartened traders that no fewer than 19 buildings, each valued at over N150 million, were affected by the operation. “If government doesn’t want companies or development here, they should just come out and say it. People have invested their life savings here. Over 19 buildings are in that plaza” one trader stated with indignation.
When approached for clarification regarding the Task Force’s involvement, its Chairman stated that the operation did not originate from his office. He elaborated: “Sometimes, security agencies in the state seek the backup of the Task Force to secure the environment. That does not mean they initiated the process. However, if such reports come to my table, I will let you know.”
As of the time of publication, no official statement had been issued by the Lagos State Government regarding the demolition; however, security personnel remained present to prevent any disturbance of public order.
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