The Lagos State House of Assembly has thrown its weight behind the state government’s ongoing demolition of illegal structures built along shorelines and beneath high-tension power cables, even as protests continue from affected communities.
The endorsement came amid growing public concern following recent demolition exercises in parts of Oworonsoki and Makoko — two densely populated waterfront areas of the state.
The Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Security and Strategy, Mr Stephen Ogundipe, said the Assembly supports the government’s actions, describing them as necessary for public safety and urban order.
According to the lawmaker, structures erected along shorelines and under power transmission lines pose serious risks to lives and property, stressing that government intervention is aimed at preventing avoidable disasters.
The demolition, being carried out by the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, has however sparked resistance from residents. NAN reports that affected Makoko dwellers staged a protest at the House of Assembly complex on Thursday, calling on Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to suspend further demolitions.
The protesters appealed for dialogue and alternative solutions, saying the exercise threatens their livelihoods and shelter.
Despite the protests, the Assembly maintained that the enforcement drive aligns with existing physical planning regulations and safety standards.
As the government presses ahead with its urban renewal agenda, the situation continues to reflect the difficult balance between development, safety enforcement and the humanitarian concerns of vulnerable communities.
