A Lagos family has cried out for help after suspected hoodlums allegedly took over their property in the Surulere area of the state, forcing out caretakers and threatening residents.
The family, identified as the rightful owners of the property located along Lawanson Road, alleged that the hoodlums stormed the building last week, broke into apartments, and claimed ownership without any legal documents.
Speaking to journalists on Monday, the family’s spokesperson, Mrs. Funke Adeyemi, said all efforts to get assistance from law enforcement agencies had so far proved difficult, leaving the property vulnerable.
“These people came in with force, destroyed our gates and locked out tenants who had been paying rent to us for years. They boast openly that nothing will happen to them because they have powerful backers”.
According to her, some tenants have already fled the building out of fear, while others remain trapped, unable to access their homes freely.
The family appealed to the Lagos State Government and security agencies to intervene urgently, stressing that the illegal takeover could escalate into violence if left unchecked.
One of the tenants, who gave his name as Chukwuemeka, told reporters that he was harassed and threatened when he attempted to enter his apartment after work.
“They said I should start paying rent to them. I am confused because I don’t know who the real landlord is anymore. I just want peace to live in my home,” he lamented.
When contacted, the Lagos State Police Command confirmed receiving complaints about the matter. The spokesperson, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, said investigations were ongoing and assured that the rightful ownership of the property would be established in line with the law.
Property disputes and forceful occupation by suspected land grabbers have become a recurring challenge in Lagos, with state authorities repeatedly warning against self-help and urging aggrieved parties to seek redress through legal channels.
