A proverb popularized by L. Frank Baum in The Wizard of Oz, is a well-known, traditional saying that expresses a general truth or piece of advice about the unique comfort and belonging found in one’s home. Igbo traders affected by the demolition of over 19 properties inside the Trade Fair Center would now resonate with those few words.
The exercise was carried out by heavily guided military men, police officers.
Distraught traders told Vanguard that no fewer than 19 buildings, each valued at over N150 million, were affected.
One trader fumed: “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.”
Another trader, Chief Magnus Ike, Chief Executive Officer, Magnus Merchandise, watched as his multi-billion-Naira property stood no chance against the bulldozers. He insisted he had federal approval for the structure: “Honestly, I have not been served any notice from the Lagos State Government whatsoever. The only notices we get here are from the Federal Government, and we comply. This building was inspected. Even the Ministry of Environment has been here. If there is any problem, the proper thing is to notify us. You don’t just let people borrow bank money, take loans, and then crush their investment overnight.”
Dismissing claim that his property sat on a canal, he gestured around: “Look for yourself, there is no canal here. Whatever their reason is, due process demands notice. None was issued.