There is tension in Oworonshoki, Kosofe LGA of Lagos over the state government’s plan to continue demolitions under the ongoing urban regeneration project.
On Saturday, videos surfaced on social media showing
residents scampering for safety after teargas canisters were shot by security
operatives attached to officials of the Lagos government.
The officials were said to have arrived at the Precious Seed
community in Oworonshoki with bulldozers to continue the demolition of
structures.
However, residents resisted the officials, which led to
security operatives shooting teargas canisters.
On Friday, the Lagos State Urban Renewal Agency (LASURA)
began paying compensation to affected property owners in Oworonshoki.
The state government attributed the demolition to its urban
regeneration project.
Speaking at the event, Oladimeji Animashaun,
director-general of LASURA, said 80 residents had received compensation so far.
“We started payment yesterday, and several residents have
received their cheques,” he said.
“The total number of beneficiaries is 80. This shows that
the governor’s promise to those affected has been fulfilled.”
Responding to criticisms that residents were not given ample
notice, the LASURA boss insisted that the demolition followed due process.
“The government does not move into any area without notice,”
he said.
“Oworonshoki was marked as a regeneration zone over five
years ago. Some residents may deny knowledge, but there was proper
communication.”
Animashaun said compensation was determined by property
value, ranging between N3 million and N5 million for standard buildings, while
owners of kiosks and makeshift structures received lower sums.
PREVIOUS PROTESTS
The Oworonshoki demolition has become a major flashpoint
between the Lagos state government and residents who accuse officials of
forceful evictions and land seizures.
The controversy began after several buildings in the area
were demolished in September, triggering protests on the Third Mainland Bridge.
Residents said bulldozers moved in at night and demolished
houses without adequate notice or compensation, leaving many families homeless.
On October 17, a group of protesters staged a rally at the
entrance of the Lagos house of assembly, demanding compensation and an end to
the demolitions.
The state government, however, insisted that due process was
followed, citing a three-phase amnesty programme between May and December 2024
that allowed residents to regularise their properties.
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