Lagos Defends Oworonshoki Demolitions, Says Residents Ignored Repeated Warnings

JUST IN: Lagos Defends Oworonshoki Demolitions, Says Residents Ignored Repeated Warnings

The Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) has defended its recent demolition exercise in Oworonshoki, stressing that all actions taken were in line with due process.

According to the agency, the removal of shanties and unapproved structures was preceded by several notices and warnings issued to the affected residents, which were allegedly ignored.

In a statement released on Wednesday, LASBCA explained that the operation was part of its ongoing efforts to ensure strict compliance with urban development regulations and to safeguard the environment from indiscriminate and illegal constructions.

> “Contrary to reports circulating on social media, the demolition was not sudden or arbitrary. Occupants were repeatedly warned and given time to vacate. Unfortunately, many failed to comply, leaving us with no choice but to enforce the law,” the agency stated.

Officials further argued that the proliferation of illegal shanties not only defaced the cityscape but also posed serious health and security risks.

The development, however, has sparked mixed reactions among residents and social commentators, with some condemning the demolition as harsh and poorly timed, while others applauded the state government for taking decisive action against unregulated urban growth.

Observers say the controversy now raises critical questions about housing alternatives and urban planning in Lagos, as thousands of displaced residents seek shelter in an already overpopulated city.