Heartbreaking Demolition at Lagos Trade Fair Complex — Deputy Speaker Kalu Speaks Out

The Deputy Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has expressed deep anguish over the recent demolition of structures at the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex. He described the event as “heartbreaking” and urged the Federal Government to intervene.

Kalu’s appeal comes following the destruction of buildings within the trade fair area, an action that has triggered widespread outcry among traders whose investments are affected. He called on President Tinubu to step in and give affected occupants time to legalize their documents, rather than precipitating a sudden wipeout of properties.

The Deputy Speaker lamented that many businesses on the complex were not only serving Nigeria’s internal trade ecosystem but also contributing to the formalization of the economy. He stressed that the demolitions will inflict serious financial ruin upon the traders, many of whom operate small and medium-sized enterprises with limited resilience.

Meanwhile, the Lagos State Government has defended its actions, arguing that the demolition was part of broader urban planning and regulatory enforcement efforts. Officials claim the structures were erected without proper approvals and constituted encroachments on designated pathways and infrastructure corridors. Critics, however, counter that the demolition lacked sufficient notice and engaged without adequate stakeholder consultation.

Political voices have also chimed in. For instance, Peter Obi privately faulted the demolitions, arguing that the government should protect small businesses and ensure due process is followed in redevelopment schemes.

The Lagos Trade Fair Complex spans about 350 hectares along the Lagos-Badagry Expressway. It was originally constructed in the 1970s and became a hub for traders relocating from Balogun Market and other central business districts. Over time, the facility has suffered infrastructure decline, disputes over concessions, and governance challenges.

In 2007, the complex was concessioned to a private firm, but that arrangement was later nullified owing to reported covenant breaches. The current state of affairs points to unresolved tensions between redevelopment ambitions and safeguarding the interests of traders who have long depended on the complex for their livelihood.

To forestall further agitation, Benjamin Kalu emphasized the need for a balanced approach: allowing those in default to regularize legally, while enabling the government to carry out necessary enforcement. He urged that demolitions should not become a tool of disenfranchisement.

Given the scale of the trade fair complex’s impact on commerce, logistics, and regional incomes, the handling of its redevelopment must be transparent, inclusive, and economically just.