The Lagos State House of Assembly has ordered an immediate stoppage of ongoing demolitions at the Makoko waterfront and adjoining communities, following protests by displaced residents and rising public concern over the exercise. The directive was issued on Tuesday after deliberations involving lawmakers, government officials, and community stakeholders.
The decision was disclosed by the Chairman of the Ad-hoc Committee set up by the Speaker of the House, Mudashiru Obasa, and Leader of the Assembly, Noheem Adams. The committee was constituted to investigate the demolition exercise and engage affected residents after tensions escalated over the destruction of homes in the area.
Hundreds of residents of Makoko had staged a protest at the Lagos State House of Assembly last week to express their grievances over the demolition of their homes. The protest caused tension around the assembly complex and led to the arrest of some activists, who are currently facing trial.
The Lagos State Government had earlier defended the demolition, stating that the affected structures were built under high tension power cables. According to the government, the action was taken to prevent potential disasters and ensure the safety of residents living in the waterfront communities.
Adams read out the resolution of the Ad-hoc Committee shortly after a stakeholders’ meeting held at the Lateef Jakande Auditorium within the assembly premises in Alausa, Ikeja. The meeting brought together lawmakers, representatives of the state government, and community leaders from the affected areas.
Speaking on behalf of the Speaker and all 40 members of the House, Adams announced that all demolition activities must cease with immediate effect. He said the directive applies to Makoko, Oko-Agbon, and Shogunro communities, where residents have reported ongoing destruction of homes and property.
Adams stated that the House had resolved that all relevant ministries and agencies involved in the demolition exercise should suspend their activities. He stressed that the decision was final and effective immediately, pending further review and engagement with affected communities.
He also raised concerns over the composition and operation of the task force responsible for the demolition. According to him, the House wants full disclosure of the members of the task force and the criteria used in selecting them, to ensure transparency and accountability.
Adams said the residents must be properly involved in any process that affects their communities. He noted that the House expects the task force to work with community representatives and ensure that residents are fully informed and carried along in all decisions.
Addressing residents of Makoko, Oko-Agbon, and Shogunro, Adams gave assurances that the Assembly would protect their interests. He said the House would ensure that demolitions do not resume and that affected residents receive compensation for properties already destroyed.
He added that the Assembly would continue to engage with all stakeholders to find a lasting solution that balances public safety, urban planning, and the welfare of residents who have lived in the communities for decades.
Also present at the meeting was the Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on E-GIS and Urban Renewal, Dr Babatunde Olajide. He reiterated the state government’s position that safety concerns informed the demolition but acknowledged the need for a more inclusive and humane approach.
Dr Olajide disclosed that the state government plans to compensate residents whose properties have already been demolished at the Makoko waterfront. He said the governor had made provisions for redevelopment and compensation as part of a broader urban renewal initiative.
According to him, Governor Sanwo-Olu set aside $2 million as far back as 2021 for the redevelopment of the Makoko waterfront. He said the aim is to transform the area into a modern waterfront community that meets international standards.
Dr Olajide explained that the state is already working on a large-scale water city project designed to redevelop Makoko and improve living conditions for residents. He stressed that the project is intended to be carried out with sensitivity to the needs and rights of the people.
He added that the government recognises the historical and social importance of Makoko and is committed to implementing redevelopment plans with what he described as a “human face.” He said consultations and engagement with residents would remain central to the process.
The Assembly’s intervention has temporarily eased tensions surrounding the demolition exercise, which had drawn criticism from civil society groups and human rights advocates. Many have argued that residents were not adequately consulted or relocated before their homes were pulled down.
With the directive now in place, attention is expected to shift to dialogue, compensation, and long-term planning for the affected waterfront communities. The House of Assembly said it would continue to monitor developments closely to ensure compliance with its resolution.
For residents of Makoko and neighbouring communities, the halt in demolition offers a measure of relief as they await further discussions on compensation and redevelopment. The outcome of the Assembly’s engagement with the executive arm of government is expected to shape the future of one of Lagos’ most prominent informal settlements.
