Agboyi-Ketu LCDA Denies Involvement in Owode-Onirin Market Demolition
By Bilesanmi Abayomi
The Executive Chairman of Agboyi-Ketu Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Mayor Dele Oshinowo, has denied any involvement of the Council in the demolition of parts of the Owode-Onirin Spare Parts Market, distancing his administration from claims made in a now-viral video.
The video, which features Honourable Chief Mrs. Kafilat Ogbara addressing traders at the market, suggests that the demolition was carried out by the Lagos State Government in collaboration with the LCDA. However, Mayor Oshinowo, in a strongly worded open letter to the public, refuted the claims and said the Council had no hand in the incident.
“I want to categorically state that neither I, as Executive Chairman, nor Agboyi-Ketu LCDA played any role—whether major or minor—in the demolition,” Oshinowo wrote.
He alleged that the demolition was carried out by members of the Olowu Family and their agents. According to him, attempts by himself and LCDA staff to intervene were met with force.
“We were tear-gassed by the group while trying to prevent the demolition,” he said, adding that he has faced sustained intimidation, including five legal petitions and recent contempt proceedings initiated against him.
“Just last week, they initiated contempt proceedings against me, claiming that I am obstructing the enforcement of a court order,” Oshinowo stated.
The Council Chairman also dismissed speculations that the land would be converted into a residential estate, describing the Owode-Onirin market as a key economic hub.
“Owode-Onirin Market is, and will remain, a thriving marketplace, essential for the livelihoods of its traders and a significant revenue source for the LCDA,” he declared.
Oshinowo expressed displeasure over Hon. Ogbara’s remarks, noting that she did not reach out to him for clarification before making the claims. He warned that such unverified political statements could inflame tensions within the community.
In addressing the current crisis, Oshinowo said he is engaging with Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Attorney General, and other senior government officials to seek a peaceful resolution.
“I urge everyone to dismiss any rumors linking myself or Agboyi-Ketu LCDA to the demolition,” he concluded. “My focus remains steadfast on protecting the market land from external pressures.”
The situation at Owode-Onirin continues to draw public attention amid growing concerns over land rights, market protection, and government accountability in Lagos State.