Popular Nigerian auto influencer and car dealer, Olayinka Akinwande, widely known as Ola of Lagos, has publicly denied ownership of the Lekki car lot recently demolished by the Lagos State Government, seeking to correct widespread misconceptions about the incident.
In a video statement shared on his YouTube page on Friday, the influential car dealer directly addressed circulating claims that the government had specifically targeted his business in the demolition exercise.
“I never said or claimed to own the property of the Skywise Group,” Ola stated emphatically. “All I did was lease a section for doing my business. I repeat again, I do not own the property, nor have I ever claimed to build on the land.”
The clarification comes after the demolition earlier this week sparked mixed reactions online, with many fans and followers alleging that the government’s action was politically or personally motivated against the popular influencer.
Ola explained that the demolition was conducted for legitimate safety reasons rather than as an act of victimization. “The Lagos State Government demolished this place because some safety precautions were not taken, not that Ola of Lagos was targeted or anything. Please stop mixing it,” he urged his audience.
The car enthusiast emphasized his support for government initiatives that prioritize public safety and urban order. “It was temporary. It’s not even safe. I honestly respect and support any government initiative that prioritises the safety of its citizens,” he noted.
Addressing his relationship with the actual property owners, Ola expressed gratitude toward Skywise Group for their cooperation. “I had a good working relationship with Skywise Group and I respect the management. Please stop mixing it. They were not even greedy,” he added, further distancing the property owners from any wrongdoing.
Despite the setback to his business operations, Ola struck an optimistic note about the future of his brand. “Don’t worry, it’s for the better. Ola of Lagos Auto Showroom—another one is coming back bigger and better,” he promised his followers.
Concluding his address on a positive tone, the influencer thanked his fans for their support and reaffirmed his commitment to bouncing back stronger. “You all love me and respect me for that. Trust me, this is not about Ola of Lagos. It’s for the safety of everybody… We are coming back bigger and better,” he said.
The statement aims to dispel speculation about political motivations behind the demolition and reassure the public that the government’s action was a standard regulatory enforcement measure rather than a personal attack.
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