Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential contender, has urged state governments to exhibit sensitivity while demolishing houses and other infrastructure.
The Kano destroyed several homes and Lagos states and others for breaking regulations.
Several Nigerians have called the demolitions spiteful.
Obi wrote on LinkedIn on Tuesday that the government’s destruction of “illegal” constructions should combine regulatory compliance with concern for people’s feelings.
He raised concerns about the government dismantling “illegal” buildings built by innocent Nigerians.
“We confront a paradox: with a 70 million housing gap and massive unmet housing demands worldwide, some resort to self-help by creating facilities that function as residences, enterprises, SMEs offices and shops,” he added. Several of these constructions were created without municipal authority or with their implicit agreement.
“While some of these continuous demolitions may be excusable, they still left many casualties, largely regular individuals who erred unintentionally or were ill-informed or misguided.”
He noted that governments may resolve planning and zoning infractions without severe penalties.
He believes remedial activities should always include compassion and consideration.
He advised the administration to take aggressive steps to balance such challenges.
“I sincerely ask to different political authorities to combine the necessity to enforce conformity with existent regulatory systems, with concern for human sentiments and required compassion,” he added.
“Nigerians face great hardship due to stagnant income, spiralling inflation, high unemployment, rising socio-economic expenses, and high living expenditures. So, Nigerians should not experience unforeseen hardship.
He said governments should consider compensating victims of these sad demolitions for property loss and financial suffering.
He highlighted that the compensation should be seen within the context of eminent domain, which applies to buildings and assets taken or destroyed for the public good to relieve their pain.
“It cannot be overemphasised that the main duty of any government is to care for and protect her citizens,” he continued.
