The Lagos State Government has defended its ongoing demolition exercise in Makoko and adjoining waterfront communities, insisting that the move is driven by urgent safety concerns and the need to protect human lives.
The government’s position follows mounting criticism and protests over the displacement of residents, as well as recommendations by the Lagos State House of Assembly that affected communities—including Oko-Agbon and Sogunro—be relocated to Agbowa in Epe Local Government Area.
Speaking during an interview on ARISE News on Sunday, Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, stressed that the government’s priority is safeguarding lives over preserving unsafe settlements.
“When you talk about life and livelihood, I do not understand why some people would like to choose livelihood over life,” Omotoso said, noting that many structures were built under high-tension electricity lines and near critical infrastructure such as the Third Mainland Bridge.
He warned that continued habitation in such high-risk areas could result in disaster, adding that the government would ultimately be held accountable if lives were lost.
Providing further insight, the Special Adviser on e-GIS and Urban Renewal, Olajide Babatunde, explained that the state is adopting a multi-pronged strategy that includes redevelopment, shoreline reclamation, and innovative housing solutions.
He highlighted the Water Cities initiative, which proposes the construction of floating homes inspired by urban models in the Netherlands, as part of efforts to modernise waterfront communities.
Babatunde also referenced the successful relocation of residents from the Okobaba community to Agbowa, where housing was reportedly provided at no cost, as a model for future resettlement plans.
Addressing concerns from fishermen and other residents who fear losing their livelihoods, he maintained that Agbowa offers similar access to water resources, enabling them to continue their trade.
He clarified that the demolition exercise is targeted, not widespread, affecting only illegal structures built without government approval in hazardous locations.
READ ALSO: Lagos Assembly Proposes Relocation For Displaced Makoko Waterfront Residents To Epe
“Makoko is largely intact. It is only areas where there has been encroachment that are affected,” Babatunde said.
On compensation, the government confirmed that measures are being put in place to support displaced residents, describing the intervention as necessary to prevent potential tragedies.
While the Assembly has endorsed relocation as a long-term solution, officials say no fixed timeline has been established.
The government rejected allegations of insensitivity, maintaining that the exercise is part of a broader urban renewal agenda aimed at ensuring safety, sustainability, and modern development across Lagos.
The controversy continues to spark debate around urban planning, housing rights, and the balance between development and livelihoods in one of Nigeria’s most densely populated cities.