Makoko demolitions halted as Lagos Assembly directs review and promises fair compensation for affected residents following protests

The Lagos State House of Assembly ordered an immediate suspension of ongoing demolitions in Makoko following protests by residents and advocacy groups.

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The directive was issued after a meeting between lawmakers and representatives of the Makoko community at the Assembly Complex in Alausa, Ikeja, on Tuesday.

The Majority Leader, Noheem Adams, announced the decision on behalf of the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa, and other members of the House.

“No ongoing demolitions should continue. We are taking this matter seriously,” Hon. Adams said. He added that the Assembly would coordinate with relevant ministries and agencies to review the demolition plans and ensure all stakeholders are properly engaged.

The lawmaker also demanded transparency regarding the government taskforce, requesting a full list of members and the criteria for engagement.

“We want the residents to be duly involved and to be carried along,” he said.

Hon. Adams assured residents that demolitions would cease immediately and promised compensation for all properties affected so far.

His comments were supported by Hon. Stephen Ogundipe, a member of the ad-hoc committee, who stressed that residents must be informed in advance about relocation or redevelopment plans.

Babatunde Olajide, Special Adviser to the Governor on E-GIS and Urban Renewal, confirmed that $2 million had been allocated since 2021 to transform Makoko into a modern, internationally compliant water city.

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Enumeration of affected properties is ongoing, with the administration emphasising a human-centred approach that prioritises safety and fair compensation.