By Ghazali Ibrahim
The Lagos State Government has demolished a prominent car showroom owned by social media influencer and auto dealer Waris Olayinka Akinwande, popularly known as Ola of Lagos.
The razing of the structure, which housed his OOL Autos brand, was first revealed through viral TikTok and Instagram videos showing heavy machinery tearing down the building.
While the state has not officially confirmed the demolition, social media reports suggest the structure was built beneath a high-tension electrical line
Some users claim that the showroom was situated directly under power cables, making it a hazard and justifying the intervention.
In response, Ola of Lagos took to his Instagram account to reassure his followers and business associates that his operations remain active despite the setback.
He announced plans to open a new, bigger showroom in the near future and urged clients to contact him via call or WhatsApp in the interim.
He also shared a personal reflection on the financial loss, noting that the damage incurred could have bought a luxury apartment in Ikoyi. But he maintained optimism, saying, “All is well… bigger and better coming soon, insha Allah.”
Reactions from social media have been divided: some sympathize with Ola’s loss, citing a lack of prior warning or relocation offer, while others argue that his decision to build under a power line was reckless and should not be excused.
In related operations, Lagos authorities reportedly razed 17 structures illegally built on the right of way of the Ikota River alignment.
