Oworonshoki demolition protest Lagos

The residents of Oworonshoki, Lagos, have intensified their protest against the state government’s demolition of their homes, vowing to “take back their community”. The demolition, which began in the early hours of September 6, 2025, has displaced hundreds, with many forced to seek temporary refuge in churches and public spaces.

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Residents’ Grievances

The Oworo Youths Forum (OYF) condemned the exercise as a “crime against humanity”, claiming it targets poor residents to pave the way for elite residential projects. According to them, plots in the redeveloped area are priced at N60 million, far beyond the reach of ordinary citizens.

Residents allege they were given minimal notice, some only five minutes to evacuate, before bulldozers destroyed their homes. Tear gas was reportedly deployed against those attempting to document the demolitions. Many families lost personal belongings and are now living in temporary shelters with little assistance.

Government Response

Officials, including Gbolahan Owodunni, Permanent Secretary in the Office of Urban Development, have stated that residents had ample time to regularize their properties. In a widely circulated video, Owodunni implied that displaced residents would gain nothing by seeking help from NGOs, igniting further outrage among the affected communities.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has been called upon by the OYF to halt further demolitions, provide compensation, and ensure resettlement for those displaced. Civil society groups argue that housing is a fundamental human right, emphasizing the need for fair and transparent urban planning.

Broader Implications

The Oworonshoki protests highlight ongoing tensions in Lagos over urban development and gentrification. Many low-income communities face similar threats, raising questions about the balance between development and residents’ rights. Human rights advocates are calling for urgent policy reforms to protect vulnerable populations from forced evictions without adequate compensation or relocation.