Lagos: Chaos erupted in Nigeria’s commercial hub as police fired tear gas at hundreds of protesters rallying against forced demolitions in Makoko and nearby floating settlements. The demonstration, intended as a peaceful march to the Lagos State House of Assembly, escalated into violent confrontations, leaving at least one protester injured and several activists briefly detained.
The protest drew over a thousand residents from Makoko, Oworonshoki, and Owode Onirin, areas where wooden homes on stilts have been systematically demolished in recent weeks. Organized by civil society groups advocating for low-income communities, the march demanded an immediate halt to evictions and urged authorities to provide humane resettlement plans. Many demonstrators described the demolitions as unlawful and destructive to livelihoods, with thousands rendered homeless almost overnight.
Makoko, often referred to as the “Venice of Lagos,” has long existed as a self-built, riverine settlement. Its residents primarily depend on fishing, small-scale trade, and informal work. Despite the community’s long history, the city government regards many of its structures as illegal and unsafe, especially those encroaching on power lines and waterways. The demolitions, critics argue, disregard decades of habitation and fail to provide alternative housing.
The protest escalated when demonstrators reached Alausa, the seat of the Lagos State House of Assembly. Riot police, including the Rapid Response Squad, blocked the marchers’ path and issued orders to disperse. When the crowd resisted, officers launched tear gas into the crowd, causing panic. Witnesses reported one protester suffered a leg injury, while others fainted after inhaling the gas. Journalists covering the scene also faced difficulties as law enforcement continued aggressive crowd-control tactics.
Activists carried placards reading “Stop the Demolitions” and “Makoko Is Not a Slum,” highlighting the community’s demand for recognition and justice. Many protesters called on Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to implement long-term, inclusive urban planning policies instead of aggressive clearance operations that displace vulnerable populations.
The incident in Lagos reflects a broader challenge in rapidly growing African megacities: balancing urban modernization and enforcement of building regulations with the rights of residents in informal settlements. With millions struggling with poverty and limited access to affordable housing, forced evictions risk deepening social unrest and human suffering.
At present, Lagos police have not released an official statement regarding the protest. Observers warn that unless the government engages constructively with affected communities, tensions could escalate further in the coming weeks.