Several traders at the Owode Motor Spare Parts Market in Lagos sustained injuries following the resumption of demolition activities at the site, despite a standing court injunction halting further action.
Eyewitnesses reported that heavily armed security operatives and unidentified individuals stormed the market early Thursday morning, accompanied by bulldozers that began tearing down structures. Traders who attempted to resist the demolition were reportedly dispersed by sporadic gunshots fired into the air.
The incident reignited tension among shop owners who have been embroiled in a legal dispute concerning the ownership and control of the market land. The matter, which is currently before an Ikeja High Court under Suit No. ID/1757/1994, had prompted the issuance of a court order on June 2, directing all parties to maintain the status quo until the next hearing on July 2.
This latest demolition comes just months after over 500 shops were razed in a March 2025 exercise, sparking protests and petitions to the Lagos State House of Assembly and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. With no response from authorities, the traders escalated the matter to the judiciary.
Reacting to the incident, the Centre for Human and Socio-economic Rights (CHSR) condemned the demolition. Its president, Comrade Alex Omotehinse, described the operation as “a violation of due process” and called on senior police officials to investigate the officers allegedly involved.
“We are concerned that these actions defy an existing court order and could incite a breakdown of law and order. It is imperative for authorities to uphold the rule of law and safeguard public trust in legal processes,” Omotehinse stated.
A trader, Solomon Joel, who witnessed the demolition, said: “We are not against development or resolution, but this approach is violent and unjust. There are legal channels being pursued, yet we are being punished for seeking justice.”
Community leaders have urged the Lagos State Police Command to investigate the role of security personnel in the demolition and prevent further escalation. Attempts to reach police spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin were unsuccessful at the time of reporting.
As tensions continue, stakeholders are calling for calm, legal accountability, and adherence to judicial directives to prevent further unrest.
