Sophia Lee
Fri, Aug 4, 2023 2:30 PM

Demolition Tragedy: Over 250 Houses Destroyed and Thousands Displaced in Oworonshoki, Lagos State

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Demolition Tragedy: Over 250 Houses Destroyed and Thousands Displaced in Oworonshoki, Lagos State
A heartbreaking demolition tragedy occurred in Oworonshoki, Lagos state, as over 250 houses were demolished, leaving over 12,000 residents displaced. The demolition was carried out by the Lagos State Ministry of Environment and Water Resources to combat flooding and environmental degradation along the riverbank. Many affected residents were not adequately informed, resulting in severe distress and loss.

Oworonshoki, a community in Lagos state, experienced a devastating incident on Wednesday, August 2, when over 250 houses were demolished, displacing more than 12,000 people. The demolition was carried out by the Lagos State Ministry of Environment and Water Resources' Task Force in a bid to address flooding and environmental degradation along the riverbank.

According to The Guardian, the affected residents in Oke Eri, Odun-Ifa, and Precious Seed Communities had received a notice from the ministry to vacate their homes. However, some of the affected community members claimed that they were only informed about the evacuation if their houses were close to the riverbank.

The demolition caught many residents by surprise as the task force operatives arrived with bulldozers and a heavy security presence. Witnesses reported that the task force forcefully ejected residents and destroyed their properties before setting them ablaze.

A tragic loss was also recorded during the demolition operation. A young man, aged 20, lost his life while trying to salvage his father's belongings from the rubble. The pain and anguish experienced by the affected residents are immeasurable.

In the aftermath of the demolition, residents who lost their homes and possessions have been left in dire circumstances. Some have resorted to selling their belongings to scavengers in an attempt to raise money for food. Others find themselves cooking their meals in the open with no proper shelter.

Francis Adeseluro, a 69-year-old resident, expresses his grief and desperation: "I am 69; I suffered before building this house, and now, I don't have a place to sleep. Where do I go from here? I have a wife and children. I would have looked for another place if I were informed earlier. I have started selling all I have to feed my family. I don't know where to go from here. The government and good people of Nigeria should come to my aid."

This demolition tragedy is not an isolated incident. Recently, Legit.ng reported on the heart-wrenching story of a woman named Koja, who wept uncontrollably with her grandchildren as their house was demolished by the Lagos state government. Mrs. Koja's home was situated on Folorunsho Street in Oworonshoki.

This unfortunate event raises questions about the transparency, communication, and compassion of the authorities responsible for executing such demolitions. It emphasizes the urgent need for improved policies and procedures to ensure that affected residents are adequately informed, provided with suitable alternatives, and given reasonable time to make necessary arrangements.

The tragedy in Oworonshoki highlights the importance of finding a balance between protecting communities from flooding and preserving the rights and well-being of the residents. Efforts should focus on proactive measures such as community engagement, education, and urban planning that incorporate the needs and concerns of the people.

It is our hope that the Lagos State government and compassionate individuals will come to the aid of the displaced residents, providing immediate relief and long-term solutions for their housing and livelihood challenges. Together, we can rebuild shattered lives and ensure a safer and more caring society.

Source of content: OOO News 2023-08-04 News

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