By Obinna Uballa
Displaced residents in Lagos staged a protest to demand justice for individuals allegedly killed during forced evictions in their communities. The demonstrators claimed that some victims were unlawfully shot during the clearance exercises, leaving families devastated and without accountability.
The protesters who carried coffins called for the prosecution of those responsible, compensation for affected families, and an end to what they described as land grabbing.
The demonstration took place on Wednesday at Ikeja Under Bridge and focused on recent demolitions in Makoko, Owode Onirin, and Oworonshoki communities.
Activists and community members carried placards highlighting their demands for justice and accountability. Former Labour Party gubernatorial candidate Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour joined the protest, condemning the demolitions at the Makoko waterfront and describing them as a violation of residents’ rights.
He called for “consultation and inclusive design” in urban renewal projects.
In a video shared on his X account earlier, Rhodes-Vivour emphasised the need to protect livelihoods and explore alternatives such as resettlement and upskilling rather than relying on “brute force” to remove residents.
“No matter what local government it is, because we all need each other. In this case, we need justice for poor Makoko,” he said.
Meanwhile, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu defended the demolitions, citing public safety concerns. Speaking after signing the N4.4tn 2026 appropriation bill, the governor said the actions were necessary to prevent tragedies, particularly in areas under high-tension power lines.
“The safety of lives and property is paramount. It’s a similar thing we’re doing in Makoko. Of what interest would it be for the government to demolish anyone’s structure if not for the overall safety of citizens?” Sanwo-Olu said.
He also noted that some structures had encroached dangerously on the Third Mainland Bridge and warned that NGOs lobbying against the demolitions had other motives.
The governor assured that palliative measures were being provided to affected residents. “I’ve instructed both the local government and relevant ministries to provide additional support, palliatives, relocation options, and grants for some of these people, just to show compassion,” he added.
