Makoko Demolition: Lagos Govt Defends Action, Says Safety, Security Top Priority
The Lagos State Government has reiterated that the demolition of structures in Makoko and other waterfront communities is driven by concerns for public safety, environmental protection, and security, Global Mirror News reports.
State officials made the clarification on Saturday during Ask Lagos, a weekly X-space engagement platform created to bridge communication between the Government and residents.
The discussion featured the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso, and the Special Adviser to the Governor on e-GIS and Urban Development, Mr. Olajide Abiodun Babatunde.
Addressing widespread concerns over the exercise, Omotoso explained that the demolitions were preventive measures aimed at averting potential disasters, particularly those associated with illegal constructions beneath high-tension power lines and along waterways.
“No responsible Government can allow people to live directly under high-tension cables or block vital waterways,” Omotoso said, adding that the actions were taken to protect lives and property rather than to punish residents.
He also refuted claims that affected communities were not informed ahead of the demolitions, stating that the Government had engaged with residents for over five years.
According to him, planning regulations stipulate that buildings must be at least 250 metres away from power lines, a requirement many of the affected structures violated.
“The danger is enormous. If a power line collapses into the lagoon, the consequences could be unimaginable,” the commissioner warned.
In his contribution, Babatunde described the demolitions as part of a broader urban regeneration agenda aimed at making Lagos a safer and more sustainable megacity.
He cited the relocation of residents from Oko Baba to newly developed housing estates as an example of Government intervention, noting that hundreds of housing units had been provided for displaced persons.
He further encouraged residents and developers to comply with planning regulations, stressing that sustainable urban development depends on adherence to established guidelines.
Babatunde added that the state’s e-GIS platforms enable residents to verify zoning classifications and setback requirements before commencing construction.
During the interactive session, some participants raised concerns about alleged casualties, excessive use of force, compensation, and unclear relocation plans.
Others highlighted the emotional and social impact of the demolitions on affected families.
Responding, Omotoso urged members of the public to avoid speculation and rely on verified information, while Babatunde reiterated that digital planning tools are available to help residents make informed decisions.
Despite criticism from some residents and civil society groups who have described the demolitions as discriminatory or anti-poor, the Lagos State Government maintains that the exercise is necessary to prevent larger safety, environmental, and infrastructural disasters.
