Makoko residents react as Lagos Assembly orders suspension of demolitions

Makoko residents react with cautious optimism as the Lagos State House of Assembly suspends demolitions, promises compensation, and assures the historic waterfront community it will not be wiped out.

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Residents of Makoko have expressed mixed reactions to assurances given by the Lagos State House of Assembly following a meeting with community representatives at the Assembly Complex in Alausa, Ikeja, on Tuesday.

The assurances come after weeks of protests and public outcry by Makoko residents, who feared that ongoing demolition exercises could extend beyond agreed safety limits and leave thousands homeless.

The Lagos Voice reported that the Lagos Assembly announced an immediate suspension of demolitions in Makoko and other waterfront communities.

Lawmakers also promised that residents whose homes had already been demolished would be adequately compensated.

The Assembly further stated that any task force set up to manage the situation would include representatives of the Makoko community, stressing transparency and accountability.

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Lawmakers also pledged to carry out on-the-spot assessments of affected areas and work closely with relevant ministries and agencies on redevelopment plans.

Importantly, the Assembly emphasised that there were no plans to wipe out Makoko, describing it as an indigenous fishing settlement with historical and cultural significance in Lagos State.

Makoko Community Leaders cautiously optimistic

Reacting to the development, Makoko youth leader, Lokosu Samuel Aniel, said the Assembly’s intervention offered some relief but warned that residents would not accept empty promises.

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“The promises made by the Assembly are a step in the right direction, but we need to see concrete actions. Transparency and accountability are critical if affected residents are truly going to benefit,” Aniel said.

He noted that the community had suffered severe consequences from the demolitions, including homelessness, destruction of property and, in some cases, loss of lives.

According to him, young people and students have been particularly affected by displacement and uncertainty.

“We are tired of repeated promises that end without fulfilment. We are not begging for sympathy; we are demanding justice, fairness and respect for our rights,” he added.

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Aniel also welcomed the proposed task force but insisted that community members must be actively involved in decision-making to ensure credibility and fairness.

Displaced Residents Demand Action, Not Words

Displaced resident Ehountin Gabriel described the Assembly’s assurances as encouraging but insufficient without immediate action.

“What the Lagos Assembly promised sounds good, but our people are tired of promises. Homes were destroyed, families displaced, and lives shattered. You cannot erase that pain with words alone,” he said.

Gabriel stressed that trust would only be restored when demolitions genuinely stop and compensation is paid promptly.

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Similarly, Makoko Youth President Kojah Phineas expressed deep scepticism, citing previous unfulfilled commitments by government officials.

“These are politicians we are talking about. They promised before to check the demolition limits, but never did,” Phineas said.

He added that the use of tear gas during recent protests would not intimidate residents.

“We will keep coming back until there is a clear declaration that Makoko will not be demolished,” he said.

Calls for Legal and Policy Protection

Other residents echoed the call for vigilance. A youth member who requested anonymity said the Assembly’s statement must be backed by policies that guarantee long-term protection for Makoko residents.

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“If the government truly recognises Makoko as an indigenous fishing community, then our homes should not be destroyed without alternatives. We want protection, not fear,” he said.

Despite lingering distrust, residents said they remain open to peaceful engagement with the government, provided demolitions are permanently halted, and development plans protect livelihoods.