The Lagos State House of Assembly has ordered an immediate halt to demolition activities at the Makoko community waterfront, following protests by residents over the forced removal of structures.
The decision was announced on Tuesday by Noheem Adams, Chairman of the Ad-hoc Committee set up by Speaker Mudashiru Obasa, after a stakeholders’ meeting at Lateef Jakande Auditorium on the Assembly premises in Alausa, Ikeja. Adams, who is also the Leader of the House, read out the resolution urging the state government to suspend further demolition until a safer, more inclusive plan is developed.
The move comes after hundreds of Makoko residents staged a protest at the Assembly last week to voice their grievances, citing displacement and loss of livelihood. The protest escalated tensions, leading to the arrest of some activists who are currently facing trial.
Authorities had argued that the demolition was necessary to protect residents from structures built under high-tension power cables, citing safety concerns. However, community leaders and activists have repeatedly called for a more consultative approach that balances safety with the residents’ right to shelter.
The Assembly’s resolution signals a pause in government action and an opportunity for dialogue between authorities and the Makoko community, highlighting the delicate balance between urban safety and social equity in rapidly growing Lagos.
