Dapo Abiodun-led government has allegedly been fingered in the ongoing demolition of a N1 billion worth five-storey building belonging to the wife of Otunba Gbenga Daniel, Yeye Olufunke Daniel.
The building, located at Folagbade Street, Ijebu Ode, was set to be commissioned at the end of this month.
According to Engr Olusegun Lawal, the project manager, the demolition of the building, which construction had begun in 2009 with full approval from the relevant authorities, commenced at 3 am on Sunday, 10th September, 2023, and is still ongoing.
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Among reasons allegedly cited by the government for this drastic action included inadequate parking space, inadequate muster point, and inadequate airspace.
Moreover, it has been reported that a notice of demolition was given to the property owners just three days ago, leaving them with very little time to respond or challenge the decision.
This sudden incident has caused distress and panic among the workers and residents of the area.
Approximately 100 Nigerians were employed on the construction site, and they now face an uncertain future due to this unexpected turn of events.
The ongoing demolition has not only resulted in the loss of a substantial financial investment but has also left many individuals without employment.
In his preliminary report, Engr. Lawal revealed that the excuses given by the government are not tenable, insisting there was zero infraction.
He claimed that on parking space, the building is sided by two (2) undeveloped streets which is being prepared by the developers to be tarred to support parking while the empty piece of land at the back is being negotiated for lease to complement car parking.
According to him, there is an ample space around the building that can be used as muster point, which is any space outside the building where people can gather in case of fire or emergency.
While insisting that the issue of air space was newly introduced,he explained that there is enough airspace as there is no single adjoining building around the 4 sides of the building.
“There is also no concrete fence but only metal grills to ensure proper airflow. It must be noted that there are other buildings with the vicinity that does not even come close in terms of compliance on safety matters. All these information are known by the relevant personnel of Government in ongoing discussions,” he said.
The project manager also clarified that there are no single structural defects on the building.
“All relevant and necessary government approvals have been obtained. The third floor of the building is to house the Ogun East Senatorial Office,” he added.
The reasons behind the government’s decision and the manner in which the demolition was carried out have raised questions about due process and the legality of the action.
As the demolition continues, residents and onlookers gather around the site, expressing their shock and disbelief at the destruction of such a significant property.
