Ogun State Government Controversial Demolition of DATKEM Plaza Owned by Former First Lady
In a startling development, the Ogun State government has carried out the demolition of DATKEM Plaza in Ijebu Ode, a property belonging to former Ogun State First Lady, Yeye Olufunke Daniel, who currently serves as the Senator representing Ogun East senatorial district.
This demolition has ignited controversy, particularly considering that both Governor Dapo Abiodun and Senator Daniel are members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The construction of DATKEM Plaza commenced in 2009, and it was scheduled for inauguration at the close of September 2023, with an estimated cost of nearly N1 billion.
The government’s official explanation for this abrupt demolition, as stated by Engr. Olusegun Lawal, the Project Manager and Developer at Adeolumi Environmental Services Ltd, was a claimed lack of parking space. However, Lawal has refuted this justification, asserting that there were plans in place to address parking concerns, including the possibility of leasing an adjoining piece of land for additional parking.
Additionally, the government cited reasons such as “inadequate muster point” and “inadequate airspace.” Lawal’s preliminary report countered these claims, highlighting that the building adhered to safety standards regarding muster points and airspace.
The notice for demolition was issued with just a three-day notice period and commenced at 3 a.m. on Sunday, September 10, 2023. DATKEM Plaza was a substantial five-story structure equipped with numerous facilities, including a banking hall, elevators, air conditioning systems, a generator set, and more. Its construction spanned over a decade, with plans to accommodate the Ogun East Senatorial Office on its third floor.
The aftermath of this demolition has left roughly 100 Nigerian workers associated with the project without employment and in a state of disbelief. The preliminary report attested that there were no structural or quality issues with the building, and all requisite government approvals had been secured.
This contentious demolition has raised significant questions regarding due process, property rights, and the motivations underpinning such actions by government authorities. It is anticipated that the circumstances surrounding this demolition will elicit further debate and scrutiny in the days ahead.
