Lagos Legislature Seeks to Resettle Displaced Persons in Epe Following Demolitions

The Lagos State House of Assembly has formally endorsed the recommendations of its Committee on Rules and Business regarding the demolitions in Makoko, Oko-Agbon, and Sogunro communities, thereby making them the official stance of the House.

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This development came about as a result of a petition submitted to Speaker Mr Mudashiru Obasa, titled 'Urgent appeal regarding ongoing mass forced eviction and illegal demolition threatening tens of thousands in Makoko, Oko-Agbon and Sogunro communities.'

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Noheem Adams, Chairman of the Committee on Rules and Business, presented the report during plenary, revealing that the Committee's conclusions were reached after five separate meetings with petitioners and an oversight visit with relevant government officials and community representatives.

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The Committee's investigation found that the State government's demolition exercise led to the displacement of numerous residents, including vulnerable groups such as the elderly, the sick, women, and children, as well as the destruction of homes and properties.

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The affected communities, which are largely dependent on fishing as their primary source of livelihood, have traditionally resided on the water due to the nature of their occupation, the Committee observed.

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Following the demolition, the Committee noted a significant deterioration in living conditions within Makoko and surrounding areas, resulting in environmental and health hazards, as well as increased safety and security concerns.

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Based on its findings, the Committee recommended that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu should instruct the Special Adviser on E-GIS to review the enumeration report submitted by the Makoko, Sogunro, and Oko-Agbon communities.

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The Committee further recommended that the government should relocate the remaining residents of the affected communities to a proposed low-cost housing estate in the Agbowa area, where they can continue their fishing activities.