Over 19 structures were demolished on Thursday at the New Mandela Plaza within the popular Trade Fair Complex in Lagos, as the state government carried out a major demolition under tight security.
The operation, as reported by Vanguard, involved a convoy of trucks from the Lagos State Task Force, Rapid Response Squad, and other tactical teams who cordoned off the area. Officers turned away traders attempting to record the incident and restricted access to the premises.
Parts of the plaza had reportedly been reduced to rubble, sparking anger among shop owners who claimed they were not served prior notice.
One trader, speaking reluctantly, said: “We don’t even know the reason for the demolition. That’s why you see people moving up and down, asking questions.” Another speculated that the targeted buildings might have been considered too close to a canal.
A visibly distressed plaza owner, who arrived as his shop was being razed, shouted from his car that no notice was issued before the bulldozers arrived. Several sales representatives lamented that their bosses’ goods, still inside the shops, were destroyed along with the structures.
Traders revealed that no fewer than 19 buildings, each valued at over N150 million, were affected. “If government doesn’t want companies or development here, they should just come out and say it. People have invested their life savings here. Over 19 buildings are in that plaza,” one trader said in frustration.
According to VANGUARD, When contacted about the involvement of the Task Force, its Chairman denied originating the operation, stating: “Sometimes, security agencies in the state seek the backup of the Task Force to secure the environment. That does not mean they initiated the process. However, if such reports come to my table, I will let you know.”
However, the Lagos State Government had not issued an official statement, while security personnel maintained presence at the site to prevent unrest.
