‘We engaged residents for years, provided housing units’ — Lagos defends Makoko demolition

The Lagos state government says it engaged residents of Makoko and other waterfront communities for five years before demolishing structures in the areas.

TheCable had reported that residents of Makoko, a community nestled on the Lagos lagoon, protested the demolition of their homes by officials of the state government.

But in a statement on Saturday, the state government said the demolitions were carried out after prolonged engagement with affected communities.

Gbenga Omotoso, commissioner for information and strategy, and Olajide Abiodun Babatunde, special adviser to the governor on e-GIS and urban development, spoke on the matter during Ask Lagos, a weekly X-space discussion between the government and residents.

Omotoso dismissed claims that the exercise was “anti-poor” or unnecessary, saying no responsible government could allow people to live under high-tension power lines or erect structures that obstruct waterways.

“No responsible government anywhere in the world can allow people to live directly under high-tension cables or obstruct vital waterways,” Omotoso said.

“These actions are not punitive. They are preventive — to protect lives, avert disasters, and secure the future of Lagos.”

He added that the government had been engaging the communities for over five years, noting that existing laws require buildings to be located at least 250 metres away from power lines.

He said some community members had requested that the setback be reduced from 100 metres to 50 metres.

“They are built directly under the power lines, and no government will accept that. Imagine one of the lines dropping into the lagoon; the disaster will be incredible,” Omotoso said.

Responding to allegations of “class cleansing”, casualties, lack of compensation and heavy-handed enforcement, he said speculation only deepens division.

“We understand the pain this causes, but speculation only fuels division. Let’s focus on facts and collaborative solutions,” he said.

Babatunde said the demolitions were part of a broader urban regeneration plan aimed at making Lagos safer and more resilient.

He cited previous relocation efforts, including the resettlement of residents from Oko Baba to purpose-built housing estates.

He added that urban development must follow master plans, safety codes and environmental standards.

“Hundreds of housing units have been provided by the state, ensuring that those affected aren’t left without options,” Babatunde said.

“We must follow regulations to avoid these situations; urban development is about building sustainably for the future.”

Babatunde added that the state’s e-GIS platform allows residents and developers to verify zoning and setback requirements, urging the public to adhere to due process to avoid future conflicts. (The Cable)