LP Reps caucus decries demolition of Peter Obi's family property *Alleges planned targeting of his business interests

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By Madu Obi

The Labour Party Caucus in the House of Representatives has condemned the controversial demolition of a property belonging to the family of the presidential candidate of the Labour Party, in the 2023 election, Mr. Peter Obi, by suspected agents of Lagos State government, describing the development as deeply disturbing.

Speaking through its leader, Hon Afam Ogene, the LP caucus urged the Lagos State government, and the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, to ensure that no harm comes to Mr. Peter Obi or his business interests, in the discharge of his role as a key opposition figure.

The demolition was reportedly carried out following a court order and neither the property owners, nor any other party, was said to be aware of the order, as it was not issued in anyone's name.

Condemning the apparent misuse of the judiciary, the LP caucus stated that it undermines democratic principles and has no place in a civilized society.

It noted that the act sends a disturbing signal, adding that if a prominent figure could be treated with such lawlessness, ordinary citizens who are supposed to be protected by the law, are even more vulnerable.

Ogene observed that the development aligns with the recent alarm raised by Obi about a covert attack on him and his businesses, on account of his courage in contesting the last presidential election and consistency in highlighting the nation's widespread hardship and increasing level of insecurity.

He stressed that partisan politics shouldn't breed anguish, pain, or sorrow to anyone, emphasizing that politics should be free from bitterness and actions that harm others physically, economically, or psychologically, particularly when the goal is to serve the people's interests.

"Our leader and candidate is a staunch democrat, consistently advocating for transparency, integrity, and nation-building globally. His actions on national issues have been guided by robust patriotism and a commitment to peace.

Peter Obi's unwavering empathy for the downtrodden and suffering masses has earned him widespread admiration across ethnic, religious, and party lines.

Therefore, his and his family's legitimate economic and social investments should be protected, just like those of every law-abiding citizen, and not ruined by undemocratic forces driven by partisan politics and bitterness", Ogene added.

Obi had in response to the incident said: "Any society where lawlessness overrides the rule of law is not destined to be a haven for investors. Recent reports showing that Nigeria’s human rights indicators have worsened merely highlight severe shortfalls in government protection for civil liberties, personal security, and basic living standards.

I know what I have been going through as a person in abuse of my human rights just because I contested a presidential election which I have legitimate right to do.

So I imagine what small business owners, regular citizens, and vulnerable communities face every day. If this level of lawlessness can happen to someone with a registered company and legitimate means, what hope does the ordinary Nigerian have?"