The Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, has said the Trade Fair Complex in the state is not a sovereign community in Lagos.

This was after some social media users condemned the state government's demolition exercise against illegal structures in the complex.

One such netizen stated that Lagos has no right to carry out the demolition because the complex and land are registered with the Federal Government.

@dekezman01 said, "Lagos state government acted illegally regarding trade fair. The lands and buildings at trade fair are all duly registered with the federal government. The state government doesn’t have the right to enter into federal property to enforce demolitions."

In response, the commissioner presented facts to counter the claim also made by Senator Victor Umeh earlier.

Wahab said, "I have read a lot of ignorant opinion such as yours. This thought process is damaging and it is sad to see where it stems from, seeing that a serving senator planted the thought just to play political hardball. However, these are the facts, laid bare and supported by the law:

"Trade Fair is NOT a sovereign community within Lagos State! The board, which is a creation of the Federal Government to manage the complex, does not have powers to approve or regulate building developments within the complex independent of Lagos State Government. Physical Planning and building approvals are within the remit of State Governments. Under the Nigerian Urban and Regional Planning Act (1992, as domesticated by Lagos State’s Physical Planning and Development Regulations), all physical development in any part of Lagos must obtain planning permit/approval from the Lagos State Government through its Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development.

"This position was further clarified and reinforced by The Supreme Court judgment of 2003 (Attorney-General of Lagos State v. Attorney-General of the Federation) that land use and physical planning fall under concurrent jurisdiction, and states retain the authority to regulate development control within their territories, including federal lands, except for core areas like military formations or exclusive federal enclaves.

"The Trade Fair Complex Board may manage leases, tenancies, and commercial activities, but any construction, alteration, or development still requires Lagos State planning permit. Otherwise, such developments would be deemed illegal under state law, and the Lagos State Government has the power to seal or demolish them.

"Attached is a copy of the Supreme Court judgement. Please acquiant yourself with it. I suggest the Distinguished Senator and others alike do same."

ASA