Tension in Oworonshoki as residents protest Lagos government’s demolition exercise

There is tension in Oworonshoki, Kosofe LGA of Lagos over the state government’s plan to continue demolitions under the ongoing urban regeneration project.

On Saturday, videos surfaced on social media showing residents scampering for safety after teargas canisters were shot by security operatives attached to officials of the Lagos government.

The officials were said to have arrived at the Precious Seed community in Oworonshoki with bulldozers to continue the demolition of structures.

However, residents resisted the officials, which led to security operatives shooting teargas canisters.

On Friday, the Lagos State Urban Renewal Agency (LASURA) began paying compensation to affected property owners in Oworonshoki.

The state government attributed the demolition to its urban regeneration project.

Speaking at the event, Oladimeji Animashaun, director-general of LASURA, said 80 residents had received compensation so far.

“We started payment yesterday, and several residents have received their cheques,” he said.

“The total number of beneficiaries is 80. This shows that the governor’s promise to those affected has been fulfilled.”

Responding to criticisms that residents were not given ample notice, the LASURA boss insisted that the demolition followed due process.

“The government does not move into any area without notice,” he said.

“Oworonshoki was marked as a regeneration zone over five years ago. Some residents may deny knowledge, but there was proper communication.”

Animashaun said compensation was determined by property value, ranging between N3 million and N5 million for standard buildings, while owners of kiosks and makeshift structures received lower sums.

PREVIOUS PROTESTS

The Oworonshoki demolition has become a major flashpoint between the Lagos state government and residents who accuse officials of forceful evictions and land seizures.

The controversy began after several buildings in the area were demolished in September, triggering protests on the Third Mainland Bridge.

Residents said bulldozers moved in at night and demolished houses without adequate notice or compensation, leaving many families homeless.

On October 17, a group of protesters staged a rally at the entrance of the Lagos house of assembly, demanding compensation and an end to the demolitions.

The state government, however, insisted that due process was followed, citing a three-phase amnesty programme between May and December 2024 that allowed residents to regularise their properties.