By: Manoah Kikekon
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| Demolished houses in Makoko and Babajide Sanwo-Olu |
LAGOS, Nigeria — Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has stepped forward to defend the controversial demolition of structures in the historic Makoko waterfront community, describing the move as a proactive measure to prevent a "looming calamity."
Speaking on Monday, January 19, 2026, shortly after signing the state's landmark ₦4.4 trillion 2026 Appropriation Bill into law, the Governor emphasized that the exercise was not an attack on the community, but a necessary safety intervention. The demolitions, which began in late December 2025, have targeted structures built on power-line setbacks and those encroaching on critical infrastructure.
Governor Sanwo-Olu justified the enforcement by comparing the risks in Makoko to recent near-disasters in the state. He cited a recent incident where a tanker carrying 33,000 liters of fuel overturned, nearly leading to mass casualties as citizens attempted to scoop the spill.
"The safety of lives and property is paramount," the Governor stated. "What we are doing in Makoko is similar. We are clearing areas to ensure residents do not encroach on the Third Mainland Bridge or remain positioned directly under high-tension wires. It is our duty to act before a tragedy occurs."
The Governor also took a sharp swipe at certain local and international Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), accusing them of "profiteering" from the situation. He alleged that these groups have failed to deliver on promises made to the community while using the outcry to solicit grants from international donors.
In an effort to soften the blow for displaced residents, Sanwo-Olu announced that he has directed local government chairmen and relevant ministries to roll out palliative measures. These interventions are expected to include:
Relocation options for those living in high-risk zones. Financial grants to help families stabilize. Additional social support through the Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment.
"We have been in talks with community leaders for over two and a half years," Sanwo-Olu added. "This is about showing compassion while maintaining the rule of law."
Despite the government's safety-first narrative, civil society organizations are calling the exercise "inhumane." The Foundation for Peace Professionals (PeacePro) expressed deep concern over the displacement of thousands, particularly women and children.
Executive Director Abdulrazaq Hamzat noted that while the state has the power to enforce urban planning, the execution has been "destabilizing."
"When planning intervention produces homelessness overnight, it ceases to be development and becomes displacement," Hamzat warned.
There is growing tension regarding the actual scope of the demolition. While initial agreements between the state and Makoko community leaders reportedly suggested a 30-meter clearance from power lines, residents claim the government has already cleared up to 600 meters, sparking fears that much larger sections of the waterfront settlement are slated for destruction.