Gbafebo Rhodes-Vivour, former Labour Party gubernatorial candidate, has condemned the ongoing demolition of homes in Makoko. He described the exercise as an unlawful land grab disguised as a safety measure.Thousands of families have reportedly been violently evicted from the century-old waterfront community.
Rhodes-Vivour questioned the Lagos State Government’s claim that evictions were necessary due to high-tension power lines. He noted that private developers are already advertising luxury buildings on the same land at N150,000 per square metre. He argued this could generate over N101 billion, highlighting a profit driven motive behind the demolitions.
The government maintains that the demolition is part of its urban regeneration programme, aiming to protect residents and achieve megacity status. However, displaced families are now living in makeshift camps and boats, struggling to survive. Children are reportedly missing vaccines, and pregnant women face heightened health risks, including hypertension, anaemia, and exposure to infectious diseases.
Rhodes-Vivour stressed that true development should include communities, not erase them. He suggested resettlement, upskilling, and inclusive housing as alternatives to forced evictions. He emphasised that Makoko residents, including fishermen and families who have lived there for generations, deserve protection and respect.
Experts and human rights groups have warned that ignoring the welfare of Makoko residents could worsen inequality and undermine trust in governance. Rhodes-Vivour urged the government to prioritise people over profit, ensuring safety without displacing vulnerable citizens.
The Makoko demolition highlights a wider debate over urban development, social justice, and the rights of Nigeria’s most vulnerable communities.
