The Digest:
The Lagos State government has demolished structures in the Oworonshoki area in a late-night operation, citing the removal of illegal buildings along waterways to prevent flooding. According to eyewitness accounts and social media reports, the demolition caught residents asleep, leading to desperate pleas, protests, and clashes with security forces, and raising serious questions about the execution of the urban renewal policy.
Key Points:
- Bulldozers demolished structures in Oworonshoki from late Friday into early Saturday.
- The Lagos State Government stated the action targeted illegal buildings on waterways.
- The nocturnal operation surprised many residents who were asleep inside their homes.
- Eyewitness videos show desperate scenes and subsequent protests blocking machinery.
- The government reports compensating 79 property owners via the Urban Renewal Agency.
- Victims' groups claim the compensation is insufficient and many received nothing.
- The event has sparked significant public outcry on social media platforms.
