Dispute surrounds demolition of structures in Lagos as residents allege lack of transparency

Amidst a wave of demolitions targeting illegal structures in Lagos State, a cloud of controversy has enveloped the ongoing actions of the government. Residents affected by the demolitions express discontent, claiming inadequate notification, while the government asserts its commitment to restoring order.

The Lagos State government, citing a need to uphold state laws, has embarked on demolishing structures, particularly in areas like Lekki, Alaba Market, Ajao Estate, Abule Egba, Ladipo Market, and others. The Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, emphasizes that the government’s intention is to enforce regulations and maintain drainage standards.

However, videos circulating online feature affected residents alleging insufficient time given before the demolition. One resident, who claimed to have invested N1.7 million in a property, asserted they were only given a two-hour notice before the demolition.

Wahab, responding to these claims, assures that the government will apply the law uniformly and justly. He contends that owners of structures violating state laws were issued a seven-day contravention notice, particularly in areas facing drainage challenges.

The Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) General Manager, Gbolahan Oki, adds that buildings marked for demolition in places like Alaba International Market had received notices dating back to 2016. The government challenges claimants to provide documents proving necessary approvals for their structures.

However, legal figures like Aloy Ejimakor, Special Counsel to Nnamdi Kanu, criticize the government’s lack of transparency and allege that the demolition violates constitutional and land use laws. Ejimakor raises concerns about potential discrimination against the Igbo community in Lagos, suggesting that the demolitions disproportionately affect them.

Former Super Eagles player, Emmanuel Emenike, expresses dismay at the situation, claiming that after obtaining approval from the Lagos State Government, the demolition is an act of cruelty, specifically targeting the Igbo population.

In response to these events, Ohanaeze Ndigbo suggests that Igbos consider relocating their businesses to the Southeast, urging a reassessment of investments in light of the demolitions. However, Ejimakor views this suggestion as a double-edged sword, potentially validating discriminatory practices and reinforcing calls for Biafra.

The ongoing controversy raises questions about transparency, fairness, and adherence to the rule of law in the government’s approach to addressing illegal structures in Lagos.