Renowned author and political commentator, Reno Omokri, has weighed in on the ongoing demolition of illegal structures in Lagos State, refuting claims that the exercise is driven by tribal considerations.
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Recall that the media has recently been awash with claim that the ongoing demolitions of illegal structures around Lagos State championed by the Barr. Tokunbo Wahab-led Ministry of Environment and Water Resources, is tailored against the Igbos.
In a recent statement, Omokri asserted that those facing demolition should focus on legal compliance rather than attributing the actions to ethnicity.
The former presidential aide emphasised the importance of possessing valid building permits, stating, “When your house is demolished by the Lagos State Government, your defence should be, ‘I have all my legal building permits.’ Your defence should not be ‘It is because I am Hausa, Igbo, or Yoruba.'”
Omokri drew a parallel with similar actions taken by Governor Charles Soludo in Anambra State, where demolitions of illegal structures have been underway without accusations of ethnic bias. He questioned why the situation in Lagos is now being perceived through the lens of tribal politics.
“If you feel that Lagos is not an ideal place for you, then there are 35 other states and the FCT. Go there and build illegally and see if your ethnicity can protect you from the consequences of your actions,” Omokri stated, emphasising the need for individuals to abide by legal building standards regardless of their ethnic background.
Omokri further expressed his support for the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, urging him to continue the demolition of illegal structures.
“Until then, Sanwo-Olu demolish as many illegal buildings as you can. We are behind you!” he declared.
Read full statement below.
When your house is demolished by the Lagos State Government, your defence should be, ‘I have all my legal building permits.’ Your defence should not be ‘It is because I am Hausa, Igbo or Yoruba’.
Governor Soludo has been demolishing illegal structures in Anambra, nobody has been shouting, ‘It is because I am Hausa, Igbo or Yoruba’. Why is it now a problem in Lagos?
If you feel that Lagos is not an ideal place for you, then there are 35 other states and the FCT. Go there and build illegally and see if your ethnicity can protect you from the consequences of your actions.
Until then, Sanwo-Olu demolish as many illegal buildings as you can. We are behind you!
Ojelabi, the publisher of Freelanews, is an award winning and professionally trained mass communicator and a recipient of the D9112 Superstar Icon Award, who writes ruthlessly about pop culture, religion, politics and entertainment.
