FENRAD condemns unlawful demolition at Lagos Trade Fair Complex

Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy and Development (FENRAD) strongly condemned the recent demolition of shops and structures at the Trade Fair Complex in Lagos, describing the action as unlawful, economically oppressive, and a serious threat to Igbo traders who form the majority of the business community in that market.

According to the Executive Director, FENRAD, Comrade Nelson Nnanna Nwafor, they express grave concern that the demolition exercise, allegedly carried out without due process, contravenes key provisions of the 1978 Land Use Act—specifically the requirement for lawful revocation of occupancy rights, prior notice, and adequate compensation to affected property owners and occupiers.

Under the Land Use Act, Section 28, the government may revoke rights of occupancy only for overriding public interest—a condition that must be clearly justified, legally processed, and communicated. In this case, no transparent process, public hearing, or formal notice has been shown to exist before the demolition.

Furthermore, the Lagos State Urban and Regional Planning and Development Law mandates consultation with stakeholders, environmental impact assessments, and compensation frameworks before any structural removal or redevelopment initiative.

These procedures were entirely circumvented in this incident, amounting to a gross abuse of regulatory authority.

This demolition disproportionately affects traders of southeastern Nigerian origin, many of whom have built legitimate businesses over decades at the Trade Fair Complex.

The action not only undermines the right to property, fair hearing, and economic participation, but also sends a dangerous signal of ethno-economic targeting, which FENRAD warns could erode national cohesion and peace.

In light of these violations, FENRAD demanded the following: an immediate and independent investigation into the legality of the demolition.

“Full compensation and restitution to all affected traders and property owners, as mandated by the Land Use Act; A moratorium on all further demolitions in the area pending the outcome of said investigation; Public disclosure of the redevelopment plans, including environmental and social impact assessments, if any exist;

Institutional accountability for public officials and agencies involved in the unlawful act.

While FENRAD acknowledged past efforts by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to improve urban infrastructure and promote inclusivity in Lagos, it strongly urged the Governor to intervene, suspend all demolition activities at the Trade Fair Complex, and ensure justice and compensation for the affected communities.

“This demolition not only violates legal norms—it destroys lives, families, and inter-ethnic trust. The law is clear: no citizen should be rendered economically homeless without due process,” he stated.

FENRAD calls on civil society organizations, human rights bodies, and the National Assembly to defend the constitutional and economic rights of all Nigerians, irrespective of their ethnicity or place of residence.