The Lagos state Government has defended the demolition of Makoko structures, saying the exercise will go a long way, the need to protect lives and property, the areas where they are located and preventing high-tension and disasters.
People are relocating from their households in a boat following the forceful leave and demolition of houses in Makoko, which happened on January 9, 2026, in Lagos State.
The Lagos Government has again defended the Makoko demolition, explaining that the action forms part of a broader statewide safety and environmental policy aimed at preventing disasters linked to unsafe settlements, fire outbreaks, and high-risk infrastructure locations.
Speaking at a press briefing, Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on eGIS and Urban Development, Olajide Babatunde, who spoke during a press briefing held at Alausa, Ikeja.
Babatunde said the state is willing to help the Makoko community primarily because of the need to protect lives and property, particularly in areas located in order to reduce tension.
According to him, similar exercises had been carried out in parts of Lagos state following the incidents that happened by fallen power cables, speaking that Makoko was not singled out for implementation [Makoko Demolitions] Community Leader accused Police for interrupting Protesters With Teargas, Gunshots
“Clearing of high-tension corridors is a safety requirement across Lagos State. The action taken in Makoko is consistent with what has been done in other communities,” he said.
He explained that the government had earlier explored multiple redevelopment options for Makoko, including a proposed shoreline extension project.
However, the plan was discontinued after environmental assessments by technical experts, construction firms, and international partners indicated that it poses significant ecological risks.
According to him, the state has since adopted the Water Cities Project as a more sustainable alternative, which allows for continued habitation of the fishing community while addressing sanitation, infrastructure, and environmental concerns.
Babatunde stated that the Lagos State Government has committed $2 million to the project and continues to engage international development partners for counterpart funding and technical support.
He also said the government’s broader urban organized strategy prioritizes stakeholder engagement, compensation, and camps where relocation becomes unavoidable.
The aide cited previous regeneration projects in Okobaba, Adeniji-Adele, and Dosunmu as examples where redevelopment was achieved through consultation and negotiated agreements with affected residents and traders.
The special adviser pointed out preventing fire outbreaks, building collapses, and poor access for emergency services in populated communities as key reasons for enforcing building codes.
He said Lagos State is working to align its urban development policies with international standards and conventions that guarantee the right to adequate building facilities and safe shelters.
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