Testimony Jaga urges Lagos authorities to address demolition concerns as distressed residents speak with the Nigerian press about heavy losses
Testimony Jaga has said that the Lagos State Government must urgently clarify its intentions regarding the demolition of homes and shops around the Amikanle Command axis of Alimosho, following distressing testimonies from affected residents who spoke with the Nigerian press.
The gospel singer, who describes himself as a leader of the street gospel movement, noted that residents were initially told the exercise was meant to save lives because the structures stood under powerlines. He said the community painfully accepted the explanation on that basis.
Speaking with newsmen during a zero interest loan empowerment programme he organised for widows, Jaga said emerging reports that the reclaimed land is being allocated to new buyers have triggered anger and uncertainty, leading many to question whether public safety was ever the true motive.
He explained that his intervention became necessary after observing rising agitation among youths in the area.
He warned that growing frustration, if left unaddressed, could degenerate into unrest. He urged the Lagos State Government to speak clearly, take responsibility where needed and act with compassion to prevent further harm.
Residents who spoke with the Nigerian press described the demolition as harsh, destabilising and deeply unfair.
Many said they were driven into homelessness overnight, while traders reported losing their entire stock and businesses without notice or support.
@freelanews Victims wail as properties go down over govt backed demolitions in Command-Amikanle #foryou #iretura
One resident, Olabisi Osho, said she had lived in her home for twenty eight years before it was demolished. She appealed to the government to show mercy and provide compensation.
Another victim, Elizabeth Oni, said her husband died from shock after learning their home was marked for demolition.
For Aliya Adejare, everything she owned disappeared in a single sweep. Ikotun Shola said her shop was destroyed, leaving her without goods or income to sustain her family.
Jaga insisted that the government must act with transparency and humanity. He said compensation is not only expected but morally necessary.
He added that if the land is being resold or repurposed, the community deserves clear and honest communication.
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He said this is a sensitive moment that demands clarity, empathy and leadership because the people have endured enough and deserve to be treated with dignity.
Source: Read more at theheute.com.ng
Ojelabi, the publisher of Freelanews, is an award winning and professionally trained mass communicator and a recipient of the D9112 Superstar Icon Award, who writes ruthlessly about pop culture, religion, politics and entertainment.
