Lagos Urban Poor Face Displacement Amid Demolitions

The article highlights the ongoing struggles of the urban poor in Lagos, specifically in areas like Makoko, Oworonshoki, and Bariga. It criticizes the Lagos State government, led by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for its neglect and failure to provide adequate living conditions for the poor.

Demolitions of homes began in November of the previous year and continued into January, despite a Supreme Court judgment that restrained such actions. Residents protested against the demolitions, which led to violent clashes with police.

The Lagos State House of Assembly held a public hearing to address the issues, but there remains no clear plan for compensation or temporary accommodation for those affected. The article references a previous initiative by Kunle Adeyemi regarding a floating school project aimed at adapting coastal cities to climate change, which has since been shelved.

The piece emphasizes the urgent need for the government to engage with the community and provide sustainable solutions for the residents of Makoko.