Tears, hunger, and despair now define the once-bustling community of Oworonshoki in Lagos after a government-led demolition left hundreds of families homeless and desperate. In the wake of the destruction, many displaced residents — mostly women and children — have resorted to selling their belongings for as little as ₦500 to ₦1,000 just to survive.
The demolition, which reportedly began around 1 a.m., flattened homes along Ajileru, Ososa Extension, and Toluwalase Streets, despite a restraining court order that had temporarily halted such actions in the area. Eyewitnesses told journalists that bulldozers arrived without prior warning, leaving residents scrambling to save what they could.
“I sold my standing fan for ₦1,000. I bought it for ₦35,000, but I have no choice,” said Mrs. Bose Adebayo, a mother of four who now sleeps outdoors with her children.
Images from the scene show scattered school uniforms, overturned furniture, and broken roofing sheets — remnants of what used to be homes and small businesses. Many affected residents, now living in makeshift shelters, say they have not received any support from authorities.
Human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) has condemned the operation, describing it as a “flagrant violation of the court’s restraining order.” He urged the Lagos State Government to compensate victims and respect the rule of law.
However, the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, defended the move, insisting that the demolished structures were illegal constructions along waterways and that “no compensation would be paid for unlawful occupation.”
Analysts warn that the demolitions highlight the growing tension between Lagos’ aggressive urban renewal drive and the housing rights of low-income residents. The humanitarian fallout has raised concerns over displacement, loss of livelihoods, and disruption of children’s education in the affected areas.
