Tension gripped the Trade Fair Complex in Lagos on Thursday as the state government demolished no fewer than 19 buildings inside the New Mandela Plaza, sparking outrage among traders and property owners.

The operation, which began in the morning, was carried out under heavy security. Armed personnel from the Lagos State Task Force, Rapid Response Squad, and other tactical units sealed off the area, restricting access and dispersing anyone who tried to record the exercise.

By midday, several structures had already been reduced to rubble. Traders and business owners watched helplessly as their investments and goods—worth millions of naira—were destroyed.

Many of the affected occupants claimed they were never issued a demolition notice.

“We don’t even know the reason for the demolition. People are just moving up and down, asking questions,” one distraught trader said.

A plaza owner, who rushed to the scene, shouted from his car that bulldozers were tearing down his building without any prior warning. Others alleged that the government might have targeted structures deemed too close to a canal, though no official explanation was provided.

Chief Magnus Ike, CEO of Magnus Merchandise, whose multi-billion-naira property was among those demolished, strongly condemned the action.

“I have never received any notice from the Lagos State Government. This building had federal approval and was inspected by the Ministry of Environment. Due process requires notice. None was given,” he said.

Visibly shaken but defiant, Ike added: “Demolition or not, I will keep building. Lagos belongs to all of us. We are not going anywhere.”

Traders estimate that each of the demolished buildings was worth over ₦150 million, calling the incident a devastating setback to livelihoods and businesses.

As of press time, the Lagos State Government had yet to issue an official statement explaining the demolition, leaving affected traders demanding answers and compensation.