By Ola ‘Kiya, Reporting
THE Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has justified the ongoing removal of structures in parts of the Makoko waterfront community, stating the operation was essential to prevent a major disaster.
The area has seen demolitions since December 2025, which the state government asserts are necessary to clear buildings erected within prohibited power-line corridors.
Speaking on Monday after assenting to the N4.4 trillion 2026 appropriation bill into law, the governor emphasised that the action in Makoko was a safety imperative.
“The safety of lives and property is paramount and must be safeguarded,” Sanwo-Olu stated. “I just explained that a tanker carrying 33,000 litres of fuel fell on a bridge and spilt its contents, with over 100 people there scooping the fuel. We deployed our first responders to manage the situation. If anything had happened, we would not be having this conversation.”
“It’s a similar principle we’re applying in Makoko. What possible interest would the government have in demolishing anyone’s structure if not for the overall safety of citizens?” he asked.
The governor noted that numerous individuals had built shanties directly beneath high-tension wires.
“What we are doing is not demolishing the whole of Makoko. We are clearing specific areas to prevent encroachment on the Third Mainland Bridge and to keep residents safe from high-voltage power lines,” he clarified.
He also accused certain non-governmental organisations (NGOs) of seeking to profit from the situation.
“We are aware that some local and international NGOs aim to benefit from this. We are studying the matter and will present evidence. They receive substantial funds from international donors and have requested large grants for these areas, only to obscure their own falsehoods and failure to deliver on their promises. That is why they are shouting and crying more than the bereaved.”
“We’ve been engaged on this issue for two and a half years and have held meetings with them. We cannot simply fold our arms and allow a calamity to occur,” the governor asserted.
In a related development, Sanwo-Olu announced that he has directed relevant authorities to implement palliative measures for affected residents.
“Incidentally, I’ve instructed both the local government and the concerned ministries to see how they can provide additional support—palliatives, relocation options, and grants for some of these people—simply to show compassion,” he said.
What's your reaction?
