The Lagos State Government has defended the demolition exercise in Makoko, saying the action is part of a statewide safety and environmental policy aimed at preventing disasters linked to unsafe settlements.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on eGIS and Urban Development, Olajide Babatunde, stated this during a press briefing in Alausa, Ikeja.
Babatunde said the demolition was necessary to protect lives, particularly in areas located beneath high-tension power lines, noting that similar clearance exercises had been carried out in other parts of the state.
“Clearing of high-tension corridors is a safety requirement across Lagos State. Makoko was not singled out,” he said.
He explained that earlier redevelopment proposals for Makoko, including a shoreline extension project, were abandoned after environmental assessments showed they posed serious risks to the lagoon ecosystem.
According to him, the state has adopted the Water Cities Project as a more sustainable alternative that allows the fishing community to remain while addressing sanitation, infrastructure and environmental challenges.
Babatunde disclosed that the state government has committed $2 million to the project and is engaging international partners for additional funding and technical support.
He added that Lagos’ urban regeneration strategy prioritises stakeholder engagement, compensation and resettlement, citing past projects in Okobaba, Adeniji-Adele and Dosunmu as examples.
The adviser said enforcement of building codes and safety standards was necessary to reduce risks from fire outbreaks, building collapses and limited emergency access in densely populated settlements.
