Anxiety as Lagos Assembly panel concludes probe into Makoko demolition

Anxiety has gripped residents of Makoko, Sogunro and Oko-Agbon communities in Lagos following the conclusion of the assignment of an ad-hoc committee of the Lagos State House of Assembly investigating the demolition of structures in the affected areas.

The committee, constituted by the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, wrapped up its deliberations on Thursday, March 5, 2026, after hearing submissions from representatives of the three communities, who presented differing views on compensation and relocation for those displaced by the demolition.

Speaking during the session, the Alase of the Egun Community in Makoko, Francis Agoyon, advocated the permanent relocation of affected residents rather than the payment of compensation.

The Baale of Makoko also supported relocation, stating that most residents would prefer to be moved to another location instead of receiving financial compensation.

He, however, urged the state government to clearly indicate the proposed relocation site and properly define the boundaries of the demolition exercise covering Makoko, Sogunro and Oko-Agbon.

Representatives of the Sogunro community took a different stance, calling for financial compensation for affected residents. They suggested that each displaced person should receive about N10 million, noting that the cost of constructing an average bamboo house in the area is estimated at about N4 million.

The Vice Chairman of the Fishermen Association, identified as Tobi, said the situation had generated tension within the communities, as many residents remained uncertain about the final outcome of the process.

According to him, the people are anxious about what lies ahead, adding that the ultimate decision would rest with the traditional leaders.

Reacting to the submissions, the Majority Leader of the Assembly, Hon. Noheem Adams, expressed concern over the changing positions of the community representatives.

He recalled that the communities had initially agreed on compensation before later shifting their stance, describing the development as a setback to efforts aimed at reaching a resolution.

Adams said the committee would compile its findings, including the various positions presented by the communities, and submit a report to the Speaker and the full 40-member Assembly for further consideration.

During the meeting, officials of the Lagos State Building Control Agency, LABCA, informed the committee that some of the structures previously demolished had been reconstructed.

The agency subsequently sought the Assembly’s approval to remove the newly erected buildings.

Leaders of the three communities, however, agreed that the government should go ahead with the demolition of any structures rebuilt on the affected sites.

Earlier, the Assembly had directed the communities to constitute 10-member committees made up of women, youths, students and traditional leaders to assist in addressing the concerns of displaced residents and facilitate the resolution process.

The three communities have since submitted their reports to the Assembly Secretariat.

DAILYPOST