Massive Protest in Lagos Over Ongoing Demolition in Oworonshoki Area

Lagos, the economic hub of Nigeria, witnessed a massive protest as youths under the auspices of the Oworo Youth Forum (OYF) took to the streets to express their grievances over the ongoing demolition of properties in the Oworonshoki area. Armed with placards bearing the hashtags #JusticeForOworo and #NoToLandGrabbing, the protesters demanded immediate action and justice.

The demonstrators, joined by affected landlords and tenants, decried the actions of individuals they believed were government agents and land grabbers in top positions. They voiced their concerns and showcased signs with messages such as 'Give us our land back' and 'We say No to land grabbing'.

Spokesperson for the Oworo Youth Forum (OYF), Ogunlami Opeyemi, delivered a strong statement during the protest, emphasizing the group's determination to fight for justice. Opeyemi asserted that the protest would continue and intensify in the coming days.

In their demands, the protesters called on Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the Lagos State House of Assembly to intervene and put an end to the ongoing demolition. They asserted that the affected property owners had followed due process when acquiring their land, possessing genuine documents from the appropriate government authorities.

Key demands included:

1. Issuance of Necessary Titles

The appropriate agency of government should promptly issue necessary titles (C of O) to all landlords affected by the demolition. This measure would help protect their rights and interests.

2. Waiver of Associated Fees

The state government should waive all associated fees, regardless of the property owners' ability to produce requisite documentation. Many affected individuals lost their documents during the demolition.

3. Compensation for Losses

Government should provide unconditional compensation to every affected resident, landlord, or tenant for the loss of their properties and income incurred since the demolition operations began.

4. Assistance in Reconstruction

The affected residents should receive assistance from the government in reconstructing their homes. This process should be carried out through a participatory approach to ensure the community's involvement and support.

5. Infrastructure and Basic Amenities

The state government should prioritize the establishment of appropriate infrastructure, including access to clean water and sanitation facilities in the affected area.

6. Accountability and Preventive Measures

The government should take necessary actions to check, caution, or dismiss ministry personnel who unlawfully endorse land appropriation by individuals. Internal protocols must be put in place to prevent the recurrence of such inhuman incidents.

Opeyemi concluded the statement by highlighting the unwavering commitment of the Oworo Youth Forum to protecting the environment, advocating for community rights, and promoting resident welfare. They also called on international cooperation agencies to support their cause and hold those responsible for the demolitions accountable.

This protest strikes a chord not only in Lagos but also across Nigeria, as similar incidents of land grabbing and demolitions have occurred in different parts of the country. The response of the Lagos State Government will be crucial in addressing these grievances and ensuring justice for the affected residents of Oworonshoki.

Source of content: OOO News 2023-09-04 News

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