Tension flared in Lagos on Wednesday when operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) of the Lagos State Police Command fired tear gas and arrested several residents protesting alleged demolitions in Makoko and Iyana-Oworo.
The protesters had converged at the Lagos State House of assembly complex to oppose demolitions in Makoko, Owode Onirin, Oworonshoki, Otumara and Baba-Ijora, accusing the state government of carrying out the exercise without adequate consultation, compensation or resettlement plans.
They carried placards urging the government to halt the demolitions, with messages such as “Save our homes” and “Protect our communities.”
The protest, which attracted hundreds of residents complex in Ikeja, erupted into chaos around 1:30 p.m. when police deployed tear gas, forcing workers, passersby and demonstrators to flee the area in panic.
As gathered several protesters sustained injuries during the commotion, although protest organisers have yet to confirm the number of casualties.
Confirming the arrests of the protesters, Ayodele Ademiluyi, Esq., Lead Partner at Newworth LLP, a full-service law firm specializing in Environmental and Social Governance (ESG) law, demanded the immediate release of the activists including their leader, Hassan Soweto and one Jacob Akiri.
The legal practitioner also threatened to file a lawsuit against the Lagos State Government if their demand is not met within the next 24 hours.
According to the statement, “We act in the public interest for the Anti-Eviction activists who are currently being held on the orders of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State.
“The activists, mainly led by Hassan Taiwo SOWETO, proceeded peacefully from Ikeja Under Bridge to protest the widespread demolition of homes belonging to the poor across Lagos State.
“Upon reaching Lagos House, Ikeja, they were met with armored vehicles and tear gas, without any engagement from the Governor.
“We hereby give notice that the detained activists must be released within 24 hours. Failing this, we will have no choice but to pursue legal action against the Governor of Lagos State and those enforcing oppressive measures that violate citizens’ rights in Lagos State.”
Meanwhile, neither the Lagos State Government nor the police command has issued a statement addressing the situation or explaining the reason for the protesters’ detention.
