Hundreds of traders in Lagos have protested the state government's demolition of several buildings within the Trade Fair Complex, describing the exercise as "willful and malicious." The traders, largely from the Trade Fair Stakeholders Association, claim the demolitions were carried out without prior notice or due process, causing severe financial losses and displacement amid an already harsh economic environment.
The demolition, which took place last Thursday at the New Mandela Plaza within the complex, involved the destruction of more than 19 buildings. Traders argue these structures were federally approved and managed by the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex Management Board, not under state jurisdiction. Chief Eric Ilechukwu, chairman of the stakeholders' forum, condemned the action, emphasizing that no contravention notices were served before the demolitions.
The exercise was conducted under heavy security by Lagos State Task Force and Rapid Response Squad personnel, who restricted access and prevented traders from documenting the event. Vera Safiya Ndanusa, Executive Director of the Trade Fair Management Board, sympathized with the traders and confirmed the federal government's control over the complex, promising efforts toward an amicable resolution.
Additionally, the NGO Spaces for Change criticized the government’s selective demolition, warning it signals a hostile environment for investors and constitutes economic sabotage. The NGO called for urgent government accountability and collaboration to prevent further injustices.
Traders have called on President Bola Tinubu and the Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment to intervene, urging peaceful resolution and respect for lawful business operations within the trade fair complex.