The Lagos State Government (LASG) on Monday held a media briefing to address rising concerns over the ongoing demolitions in the Makoko waterfront community. The government emphasized that the operations were necessary for public safety and urban planning and announced a $2 million redevelopment initiative to support displaced residents.
The briefing, held at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre in Alausa, Ikeja, featured officials from the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development. The ministry defended the demolitions, explaining that the operations targeted unsafe structures built under high-tension power lines and in violation of environmental regulations. According to LASG, over 10,000 residents have been affected by the targeted removal of illegal buildings.
“Makoko was not fully demolished; there was a targeted removal of structures that were built within the radius of high-tension lines,” a state representative told journalists, stressing that multiple notices had been issued since 2024. Extensions were granted throughout 2025 to allow residents to comply voluntarily.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, through his spokespersons, accused certain local and international non-governmental organizations (NGOs) of exploiting the situation for financial gain. “The state government has no interest in destroying people’s homes without reason; this is strictly about public safety and infrastructure protection,” the governor said.
Officials cited the risk of electrocution, flooding, and structural collapse as key reasons for the demolitions. The government stated that some buildings were constructed too close to power lines and in areas prone to erosion, posing threats to lives and the broader community.
However, the demolitions have been met with significant public backlash. Residents and advocacy groups claim that police used excessive force during protests, including reports of expired tear gas, which were criticized by human rights lawyer Femi Falana, SAN.
Activists also reported that more than 3,000 homes have been destroyed, leaving families exposed, including a household with 5-month-old twins now forced to live in wooden canoes amid the rainy season.
In response to the criticism, LASG unveiled a $2 million redevelopment plan aimed at improving living conditions for displaced residents. The initiative includes temporary housing, vocational training for fishermen, and environmental upgrades to reduce flooding risks in the lagoon community.
The government said the plan is part of a long-term vision to improve Makoko’s infrastructure and sanitation while ensuring public safety. Officials stressed that the redevelopment effort will benefit the community in the long run, providing safer housing and livelihood opportunities.
The Lagos State House of Assembly has scheduled a meeting with Makoko community leaders on Tuesday, February 3, to discuss the demolitions and potential relief measures. This comes after a petition from affected residents and amid growing calls from international human rights organizations to halt the exercise.
Makoko, a historic fishing settlement founded in the 19th century, has faced similar threats in the past. Previous attempts at large-scale demolition were often stopped due to public pressure, highlighting the tension between government regulations and the rights of residents.
Residents continue to plead for reduced demolition scopes and immediate humanitarian aid. Many have dismantled their own homes in fear of further government action, leading to additional displacement and hardship.
Global rights organizations have raised alarms about the demolitions, citing potential violations of court orders and international human rights standards. Advocates argue that demolitions without adequate relocation plans can deepen poverty and increase vulnerability among already marginalized communities.
The Lagos State Government insists that it is taking steps to ensure that affected residents receive support. LASG spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa stated, “The ministry is working closely with community leaders to restore livelihoods, provide temporary shelter, and address environmental hazards. Our priority is to ensure safety and long-term improvement in the area.”
Despite these assurances, skepticism remains among Makoko residents and civil society groups, who continue to question the government’s motives and timelines. The tension reflects broader debates in Lagos over urban planning, informal settlements, and the rights of vulnerable populations.
The Makoko controversy underscores the challenges of balancing urban development with the needs of long-standing communities. Informal settlements like Makoko are home to thousands of residents who rely on fishing, trading, and small-scale businesses for survival. Demolition exercises without comprehensive resettlement plans can disrupt livelihoods and worsen social inequality.
Urban planners argue that regulating unsafe structures is necessary to prevent disasters, particularly in high-risk areas near water bodies and electrical infrastructure. At the same time, human rights groups stress that development must include proper consultation, compensation, and support for affected residents.
Governor Sanwo-Olu’s administration has emphasized that the $2 million redevelopment plan seeks to achieve this balance, by ensuring both safety and improved living standards. The government highlighted that temporary housing and vocational training will help residents recover from the displacement and rebuild sustainable livelihoods.