Ola of Lagos Clears the Air on Demolished Property: “I Only Leased It, I’m Not the Owner”

Popular car dealer and influencer Ola of Lagos has addressed the controversy surrounding the demolition of a property linked to his name by the Lagos State Government, clarifying that he does not own the building in question.

In a video shared on social media, the automobile influencer explained that he merely leased a section of the Skywise Group property for his car business operations.

“I need to clear the confusion circulating on social media concerning the demolition of my car lot. I never claimed I was the owner of the Skywise Group property. I only leased a section for my business. The Lagos State Government demolished the building because some safety precautions were not taken, not that I was targeted,” Ola stated.

He further stressed that the demolition was carried out for safety reasons and had no personal undertone, urging Nigerians to verify information before drawing conclusions.

This clarification follows public backlash and misinformation, with some online users — including activist Deji Adeyanju — accusing Ola of falsely claiming ownership of the structure.

💭 Opinion: A Lesson in Perception and Responsibility

Ola of Lagos’ statement serves as a powerful reminder of how easily narratives can spiral in the age of social media. A single photo or caption can fuel assumptions, spark outrage, and shape public opinion before the truth even surfaces.

While his clarification may clear his name, it also raises broader questions about influencer culture and accountability. In an era where appearances often outweigh facts, public figures must be careful about the image they project — because credibility, once questioned, is hard to rebuild.

At the same time, the Lagos State Government’s decision underscores a growing insistence on safety compliance and urban order, which should be applauded if carried out transparently. Demolitions, though painful, highlight the urgent need for property owners and tenants alike to adhere strictly to building regulations.

For Ola, this episode is both a reality check and a redemption opportunity — to lead with truth, stay transparent, and remind his millions of followers that in business, integrity speaks louder than luxury.