On Monday, March 10, 2025, the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) carried out a large-scale demolition exercise in the Ilaje Otumara and Baba Ijora communities, leaving thousands of residents homeless. The operation, which involved police officers and armed personnel, has drawn widespread condemnation from civil society organisations and community leaders.
The affected communities, located in Lagos Mainland, were reportedly marked for demolition as early as February 11, 2025, with residents given only two days’ notice. Despite protests and assurances from government officials that no evictions would occur, LASBCA officials, accompanied by armed security forces and unidentified individuals, proceeded with the demolition. Witnesses reported incidents of violence, looting, and destruction of personal belongings during the exercise.
Civil society organisations, including Justice & Empowerment Initiatives (JEI) and the Nigerian Slum/Informal Settlement Federation, have criticised the forced evictions as a violation of human rights and existing court orders. “This action betrays years of engagement with the government, which had promised a win-win regeneration plan for the area,” a coalition of advocacy groups stated.
Amnesty International Nigeria also condemned the demolition, describing it as a “ruthless campaign” targetting vulnerable communities. The organisation called on the Lagos State Government to halt forced evictions, investigate the use of violence, and provide adequate compensation and alternative housing for affected residents.
The demolition has left over 10,000 people stranded, with many losing their homes, businesses, and means of livelihood. Advocacy groups have urged the government to adopt inclusive urban planning policies that prioritise the welfare of all Lagosians.
As protests continue to mount, the Lagos State Government faces growing pressure to address the humanitarian crisis and uphold its commitment to sustainable urban development.
