By: Manoah Kikekon
LAGOS, Nigeria — A powerful coalition of human rights and environmental organizations has leveled serious allegations against the Lagos State Government, claiming the ongoing demolition of low-income waterfront communities is a calculated move to displace the poor in favor of wealthy private investors.
In a world press conference held on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at the International Press Centre, the coalition condemned the "systemic and cruel" destruction of homes in Makoko, Oworonshoki, Owode Onirin, Otumara, and Baba-Ijora. The groups argue that these actions, often framed as "urban renewal," are effectively creating a humanitarian crisis.
According to the joint statement, the demolitions have displaced thousands of residents including fishermen, traders, children, and the elderly without providing adequate notice, compensation, or alternative housing.
The situation in Makoko is particularly dire. The coalition reported that: Demolitions escalated in early January 2026, affecting over 3,000 homes, More than 10,000 people have been rendered homeless.
Tragically, at least 12 deaths, including two infants, have been linked to the chaos of the forced evictions.
Armed personnel reportedly used tear gas and set structures ablaze, destroying vital community assets like schools and clinics.
"Many residents are now forced to shelter in open boats, churches, or schools," the statement revealed. "This is not urban renewal; it is state-sponsored displacement."
The coalition, which includes the Centre for Children’s Health Education (CEEHOPE) and Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA), accused Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration of blatant contempt of court.
Despite an interim injunction secured on October 23, 2025, by human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN), demolitions in Oworonshoki allegedly continued. Furthermore, the groups cited a 2017 Lagos High Court ruling which declared forced evictions without consultation a violation of the constitutional right to dignity.
The CSOs highlighted a long-standing pattern of targeting informal settlements: Oworonshoki: Intensified demolitions in late 2025 despite court orders.
Otto Dogbamẹ & Oko Baba: Targeted throughout 2024. Ilaje-Otumara: Over 10,000 left homeless in March 2025. Makoko: Most recent escalations (December 2023 – January 2026).
The coalition rejected the government's offer of palliatives, describing them as "woefully inadequate" compared to the total loss of livelihoods and property. They are demanding:
1. An immediate halt to all ongoing demolitions and forced evictions.
2. Full compensation for all victims and destroyed property.
3. A transparent, community-led resettlement plan rather than temporary aid.
4. A formal public apology from Governor Sanwo-Olu.
The groups also criticized the World Bank, alleging that a $200 million slum upgrade project failed to protect these residents from displacement, contrary to the bank's own internal policies.
The statement was co-signed by notable leaders, including Israel Idowu (Makoko Waterfront Community), Comrade Hassan Taiwo Soweto (#EndbadGovernance Movement), and Betty Abah (CEEHOPE). They maintain that the government’s claim of clearing land for "environmental safety" is a smokescreen for selling prime waterfront real estate to the highest bidder.