By Ekuson Nw’Ogbunka
The Lagos International Trade Fair Complex (LITFC) has been shut indefinitely following a violent incident on Sunday (3rd May) that left one staff member dead and two others hospitalised, the Executive Director/CEO of LITFC, Barr. Vera Safiya Ndanusa, confirmed Monday.
Speaking in a telephone interview, Barr. Ndanusa said the closure was ordered to allow security agencies investigate the incident and prevent further breakdown of law and order at the complex. She described the complex as a federal asset that must remain secure for trade and investment.
According to Barr. Ndanusa, trouble started when the LITFCMB task force moved to stop what she called “illegal construction” at the complex on Sunday. She said the task force team came under gunfire during the enforcement operation.
“One staff died on the spot, and two others are in the hospital,” Barr. Ndanusa said. She commended the Lagos State Commissioner of Police and DSS operatives for responding swiftly to quell the situation and prevent retaliation.
The LITFCMB boss said the market would remain closed until investigations are concluded and those responsible are identified. She stressed that possession of firearms and disruption of lawful enforcement are criminal offences under the constitution.
She noted that the Trade Fair Complex is the largest single commercial complex in West Africa, located along the West Africa trade corridor in Lagos. Violence, she said, directly opposes the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda of economic revitalization and creating an investment-friendly environment.
Barr. Ndanusa added that LITFCMB, as a federal government agency, will continue to enforce compliance with rules governing the complex. She said new measures are being put in place to detect arms and prevent a recurrence.
Our Correspondent attempted to reach the Balogun Business Association on its public inquiry line +234 803 070 2090 on Monday. The line was unavailable. Calls to the Lagos State Police PRO on 0803 596 3919 were also unsuccessful, with the MTN line unavailable and the GLO line switched off.
The Lagos State Police Command had not issued an official statement on the incident or the closure at press time. The identity of the deceased staff has not been released pending notification of next of kin.
Stakeholders have urged calm as investigations continue. The complex hosts thousands of traders and receives visitors from across West Africa for commercial activities.
