A coalition of friends and associates of the late human rights lawyer, Gani Fawehinmi, has called on the Lagos State Government to demolish a four-storey building next to his residence in Ikeja. The group, which includes notable figures such as Femi Falana (SAN), Adeyinka Olumide-Fusika, and Richard Akinnola, raised alarm over the safety risks posed by the structure.
At a press conference on Friday in Ikeja, Falana, speaking on behalf of the coalition, highlighted that the building posed a serious threat to the security of lives and property. He accused the developers of violating the state’s urban development regulations, particularly the mandatory three-metre setback requirement between buildings. The building, which is located directly next to Fawehinmi’s home, has been marked by the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) with the notice “Sealed LASBCA DH ONG 24/04/2025.”
Falana described the building as an eyesore and an unlawful development, noting that it had been constructed almost on top of the fence surrounding Fawehinmi’s residence. “An individual or group has chosen to erect a four-storey hotel-like structure right next to Chief Gani’s residence, disregarding all family warnings and regulatory guidelines,” Falana said.
He also pointed out that the building was being used as a commercial property, which could become a hideout for criminals with ill intentions toward the Fawehinmi family. This, Falana argued, made it even more urgent to act before any harm occurred.
Another major concern raised by the coalition was the installation of a large 1,000-litre water tank on the rooftop of the building. The tank has reportedly fallen into the Fawehinmi compound on three separate occasions, although no one has been hurt so far. “These repeated incidents are alarming,” Falana said. “They highlight the dangerous proximity of the structure to the Fawehinmi residence.”
Falana stressed that the coalition was taking action now to prevent any potential tragedy. “We are speaking out to prevent a potential catastrophe,” he declared. “Justice must not only be done, but must be seen to be done.”
The coalition made it clear that if the government did not act swiftly, they would consider further actions to push for the demolition of the building. The group is demanding that the Lagos State Government take immediate steps to address what they described as an injustice to the Fawehinmi family, and a threat to public safety.
This call for action comes as the coalition seeks justice for the late human rights activist, whose legacy continues to inspire many in Nigeria. With their demand for the building’s demolition, the group aims to prevent further safety risks and ensure that proper building regulations are enforced in Lagos State.
