The demolition of 35 shops along Gasikiya College Road, Ijora-Badia, Lagos, has pitted displaced traders against the new landowner, Omopariola Adeleye, who insists the exercise was legal.
“I lawfully bought the land through a family representative, Kehinde Da-Costa Lawrence, who provided the deed of sale, letter of administration, and other supporting documents. Occupants were given ample notice to vacate, yet most ignored it,” Adeleye said, displaying his purchase documents to journalists.
Community leaders backed his claims. The Baale of Oridilu, Chief Lateef Olatunji, said the sale was acknowledged by the Lawrence family, adding: “Trouble only started when he moved to reclaim the shops built along the fence of his land.”
But Taiwo Alonge-Lawrence, a member of the family, alleged that the demolition was illegal and carried out with government support despite his lawyer submitting proof of ownership.
Traders say they are now struggling. “I bake outside now and borrow space when it rains. My drinks business has collapsed because I no longer have a place to keep my freezer,” said caterer Basirat Saidu.
Adeleye claims he offered dialogue and compensation. “He asked them for account numbers to compensate them, but they refused,” said a resident, Rilwan.
