Despite protests, Lagos Assembly backs ongoing demolition exercise

The Lagos State House of Assembly has thrown its support behind the state government’s ongoing demolition of structures and shanties built along shorelines and under high-tension power cables across the state.

Mr. Stephen Ogundipe, the Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Security and Strategy, said this in a statement on Tuesday in Lagos.

The Lagos State government, through the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, has started demolishing illegal buildings, especially in the Oworonsoki and Makoko areas.

Makoko residents had on Thursday protested at the Assembly complex over the demolition of their structures, urging Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu to stop further demolition.

Ogundipe, representing Oshodi-Isolo Constituency-01, said the exercise was a necessary step to safeguard the lives and property of residents in the state.

He said: “It is quite worrisome that we have ramshackle structures, sheds and shanties, especially along shorelines.

“The shorelines have turned to abodes of miscreants/street urchins, kidnappers, touts, street traders and hawkers, who often vandalise public utilities and attack innocent citizens.

“Although, the demolition exercise may be painful for those affected, it is a necessary step to protect the larger society and uphold the rule of law.

“The government’s action reflects a commitment to preventing avoidable disasters and ensuring sustainable urban development.”

The spokesman said the leadership of the Assembly viewed the exercise as responsible and forward-looking.

Ogundipe called on residents to remain calm and cooperate with government officials, assuring them that their concerns would not be ignored.

He also urged citizens to always comply with building regulations and planning approvals, to prevent future occurrences, stressing that collective responsibility is key to avoiding disasters.

Ogundipe, however, assured of the assembly’s commitment to balancing enforcement with empathy, ensuring that while laws are upheld, affected citizens are not left without support during the transition.

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