Mayor Dele Oshinowo Denies Involvement in Owode-Onirin Market Demolition, Urges Hon. Kafilat Ogbara to Verify Claims Before Public Commentary

Mayor Dele Oshinowo Denies Involvement in Owode-Onirin Market Demolition, Urges Hon. Kafilat Ogbara to Verify Claims Before Public Commentary

By Oki Samson

LAGOS, NIGERIA — The Executive Chairman of Agboyi-Ketu LCDA, Mayor Dele Oshinowo, has strongly refuted allegations linking him and his council to the recent demolition of the Owode-Onirin Motor Spare Parts Market, describing the claims as “baseless” and “politically motivated.”

The popular market, a key economic hub in the Agboyi-Ketu area, was partially demolished on March 6, 2025, sparking outrage among traders and members of the public. A viral video featuring Hon. Kafilat Ogbara, the Federal House of Representatives member for Kosofe Constituency, claimed that the demolition was backed by Agboyi-Ketu LCDA and was allegedly part of a plan to replace the market with a residential estate.

In a press statement personally signed and released to the National Association of Online Security News Publishers (NAOSNP), Mayor Oshinowo expressed shock at the accusations and clarified that neither he nor the Council had any involvement in the market’s demolition.

“I categorically state that neither I, as Executive Chairman, nor Agboyi-Ketu LCDA played any role—major or minor—in the demolition of the Owode-Onirin Market,” Oshinowo stated. “The demolition was executed by members of the Olowu Family and their agents.”

He further disclosed that attempts were made by him and his team to halt the demolition on the day it occurred, during which they were tear-gassed by security operatives accompanying the Olowu Family’s agents.

Mayor Oshinowo detailed a string of legal and security challenges he has faced as a result of his opposition to the market’s demolition. “Since that day, over five petitions have been filed against me at various police commands, including Alagbon, Obalende, and the Force Headquarters in Abuja. I am also facing contempt proceedings in court for allegedly obstructing enforcement of an old court order,” he explained.

He noted that his longstanding commitment to preserving the market is well-documented, stating, “The Owode-Onirin Market is a vital public asset. I have always regarded it as essential to the livelihood of traders and a major source of revenue for our LCDA.”

Responding directly to the comments made by Hon. Ogbara in the circulating video, Oshinowo said, “It is within her right to visit the site and speak to the public in her capacity as a legislator. However, it is unbecoming for a leader I deeply respect to make unverified statements that could further inflame community tensions.”

He urged Hon. Ogbara to collaborate with the council and the State Government in seeking constructive solutions, rather than resorting to what he described as “cheap political theatrics.”

“I would have appreciated a phone call or meeting where she could verify the facts before going public,” he said. “Our collective focus should be on peace, progress, and the protection of our people’s livelihoods.”

Mayor Oshinowo assured the public that he is working closely with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Honourable Attorney General of Lagos State, and other key officials to resolve the crisis and secure a stable future for Owode-Onirin traders.

“As partners in progress, we owe it to our people to lead with truth and unity,” he said. “I urge all residents and stakeholders to disregard any misinformation suggesting that Agboyi-Ketu LCDA is behind the market demolition. My administration remains committed to protecting our community’s interests.”

The unfolding events at Owode-Onirin highlight ongoing tensions between private claimants and public interests in land use within Lagos, with Mayor Oshinowo positioning himself firmly in defense of the traders and local economy.