The Lagos State House of Assembly has ordered an immediate halt to the demolition of structures in the Makoko area following widespread protests from residents and human rights activists.
The Lagos State House of Assembly has officially suspended the planned demolition of houses and structures in the Makoko waterfront community. The directive was announced on Tuesday by the Majority Leader, Hon. Noheem Adams, following a series of intense protests by civil society organizations, activists, and local residents who had kicked against the exercise. The suspension aims to provide a cooling-off period and allows the legislative body to mediate the tension between the state government’s urban renewal plans and the affected community.
According to Hon. Adams, who represented the House during a meeting with community representatives, the Assembly has committed to a comprehensive review of the issues surrounding the demolition. The lawmakers intend to collaborate with relevant ministries and government agencies to ensure that future actions are carried out with proper oversight. This move highlights a shift toward dialogue, with the Assembly promising that all stakeholders will be properly engaged and consulted before any further steps are taken in the area.
Reaffirming the legislature’s commitment to the welfare of the citizens, the Majority Leader emphasized that the leadership of the House is fully involved in resolving the impasse. In an official statement, Adams noted: “On behalf of the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa, and honourable members of this House, we are taking this matter seriously. All ongoing demolitions should be stopped.” This intervention is expected to bring temporary relief to thousands of residents whose livelihoods and homes were threatened by the clearance exercise.