The Lagos State Government has attributed the widespread social media criticism over the recent demolition of structures in the Makoko waterfront community to what it calls “unpatriotic” individuals profiting from illegal activities in the area.
Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotosho, made the claim during a radio interview, alleging that some figures exploit Makoko’s conditions to secure international humanitarian funds for projects that are never executed.
Omotosho conceded that some government officials are involved in the illicit operations and warned local council leaders benefiting from levies on illegal structures to stop the practice. The demolition, he explained, was a preventive measure to “avert an imminent disaster,” as many structures were built dangerously beneath high-tension power lines and within areas that could compromise the structural integrity of the Third Mainland Bridge.
When questioned about the lack of resettlement for displaced residents prior to the demolition, Omotosho argued that providing such alternatives would encourage unchecked migration into Lagos.
He further accused certain residents of widespread lawlessness, pointing to the recent emergence of illegal structures along the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway as evidence of growing disregard for regulations.
