Former Governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi, has condemned the ongoing demolition of properties in Lagos and other parts of the country. In a series of tweets on Tuesday, Obi urged governments to tread softly when demolishing properties, especially considering the current economic hardship faced by many Nigerians.
Obi’s comments come in response to recent demolitions in Lagos, where the state government has been removing structures built on drainages to avert flooding. While acknowledging the need for urban planning and flood mitigation measures, Obi stressed that these actions should be carried out with compassion and consideration for the plight of affected citizens.
“It’s with complete despondency and unhappiness that I have followed the ongoing demolitions of properties across the country, especially knowing the extra hardship such acts have been heaping on hapless citizens who are already battling with multi-dimensional poverty,” Obi stated in one of his tweets.
He further lamented that some of the properties being demolished represent the life-time savings and retirement abodes of the aged and incapacitated. “The poor in our midst who are putting their meager resources together are going through very severe financial stress that should not be multiplied further,” Obi added.
Obi called on the governments involved in these demolitions to consider the hardship in the country and put a human face to their actions. “While we should enforce sensible regulations, all actions of government must show compassion,” he emphasized.
Obi’s message highlights the delicate balance between urban development and the well-being of citizens. While enforcing regulations and addressing infrastructural issues is crucial for sustainable development, it is equally important to consider the impact on vulnerable communities. Governments must strive to find solutions that minimize hardship and promote the well-being of all residents.
Source:AfricaHousingNews
