Lagos Auto Dealers Back Government Over Lekki Showroom Demolition
Atume Terfa
The Lekki Automobile Dealers Union has thrown its full support behind the Lagos State Government following the recent demolition of car showrooms in Lekki, describing the move as “lawful, necessary, and in the public interest.”
The operation, which took place along the busy Lekki–Ajah Expressway, sparked widespread debate on social media after viral videos showed excavators pulling down luxury car display lots — including one linked to popular auto influencer Ola of Lagos.
According to reports, the affected facility, initially believed to belong to Ola of Lagos, was actually owned by Skyewise Group, a registered automotive company. The firm clarified that the influencer had only leased part of the space for car displays and promotional content.
The Lekki Automobile Dealers Union says the demolition is part of a broader effort by the Lagos government to maintain order and safety along the Lekki-Ajah corridor. The group noted that affected dealers received prior notice and relocation assistance, contrary to claims that the action was sudden.
Dealers also highlighted environmental and safety concerns — including blocked drainage channels, risk of flooding, and structures built too close to high-tension power lines — as key reasons the exercise was justified.
The union praised Commissioners Tokunbo Wahab (Environment) and Oluwaseun Osiyemi (Transportation) for “transparent communication and professional coordination” during the process.
While Skyewise expressed disappointment over the demolition, the company maintained that all necessary permits and approvals had been obtained. It said the government’s action was tied to planned infrastructure expansion, including access routes for upcoming waterway development in the Lekki area.
Despite the setback, Skyewise assured that it would rebuild a bigger and more compliant showroom, adding that it would release official documents to prove full regulatory compliance.
Responding to the viral demolition clips, Ola of Lagos confirmed that his showrooms were affected but maintained that OOL Autos remains operational. He assured fans that a new and improved location was already in the works, promising a “bigger and better” facility.
The Lekki demolition forms part of Lagos State’s ongoing crackdown on illegal and non-compliant structures built along waterways, wetlands, and powerline corridors. The government insists that strict urban planning enforcement is key to tackling flooding and ensuring public safety.
While some business owners continue to express concerns over fairness and compensation, many — including Lekki’s top car dealers — agree that the move marks a crucial step toward a more organised and sustainable urban environment.
