Lagos Traders Count Losses as Government Demolishes Trade Fair Buildings

By Diafa Doubra,

Dozens of traders at the popular Trade Fair Complex in Lagos have been left counting their losses after the state government demolished 19 buildings within the plaza.

According to officials, the action was part of ongoing efforts to enforce urban planning regulations and clear illegal structures. The demolition, however, sparked outrage among shop owners, many of whom claimed they were not properly notified before the exercise.

Some traders lamented that their goods were destroyed in the process, while others accused the authorities of being insensitive to the economic hardships citizens are already facing. The Lagos State government defended its action, insisting that the affected buildings contravene safety standards and posed serious risks to the public.

Civil society groups have called for a dialogue between the government and stakeholders to prevent future clashes and to cushion the impact on those whose livelihoods have been disrupted.