Widespread anger has trailed a new round of Lagos demolitions after the state government pulled down more buildings across Oworonshoki, Lekki, and parts of Lagos Island.
Residents, civil society groups, and industry experts say the action punishes ordinary citizens while overlooking failures in government supervision.
Fresh wave of demolitions sparks outrage
The latest demolitions began around November 24, 2025, in the Coker axis of Oworonshoki. The same day, several structures on Lagos Island were also demolished. In Lekki, at the Ikota River Right of Way, 17 buildings were pulled down earlier in October for alleged encroachment.
For many residents, the pattern shows that regulatory agencies did not monitor construction early enough to prevent these losses.
Experts blame poor oversight and weak enforcement
Concerns intensified after the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) issued a communiqué at a building sector conference in Abuja. The agency warned that poor compliance and weak supervision across construction sites continue to endanger lives.
Construction expert Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke said sustainable building practices require strict adherence to codes and guidelines. According to him, ignoring these rules has contributed to collapses, deaths, and massive financial losses.
Humanitarian concerns rise as families lose homes
The human cost of the demolition exercise has been devastating.
Gospel artist Testimony Jaga, speaking after a demolition along AIT Road and the Powerline axis, said many families now sleep outside with no shelter or food.
The Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) had claimed the structures encroached on high-tension powerline corridors.
Several residents shared their painful stories:
- Mrs. Adebimpe Oduro, a widow, lost her only means of livelihood.
- Mrs. Shola Ikotun and Mrs. Bisoye Lawal said their shops were vital to supporting their families.
- 64-year-old Mrs. Olabisi Osho fainted during the demolition of her home and suffered a head injury.
- 66-year-old Aina Adejare said she now sleeps on bare ground after losing her marital home of over 30 years.
Residents accuse the government of neglecting their welfare while properties cleared for public infrastructure are allegedly being converted into private developments.
Allegations of land repurposing spark further anger
Testimony Jaga alleged that areas initially designated for a BRT depot and a Mechanic Village are now being redeveloped into malls and private shops. He described the situation as “a humanitarian crisis,” insisting that the government must provide compensation, especially for widows and elderly residents.
Call for more humane urban planning
Urban analysts warn that Lagos cannot enforce planning regulations without addressing the needs of vulnerable residents. They argue that demolition should be a last resort, and only after proper notice, monitoring, and relocation plans.
Residents say they are not opposed to urban development but want transparency, accountability, and humane implementation.
