Bulldozers Storm Oworonshoki as Residents Cry Out Over Displacement

Bulldozers Storm Oworonshoki as Residents Cry Out Over Displacement
Men, women, and children were forced into the darkness without a chance to gather their belongings
Community associations have repeatedly appealed to the Lagos State Government to halt the demolitions

Oworonshoki in Lagos State has once again descended into chaos and despair as fresh demolitions pushed hundreds of families onto the streets.

Eko Hot Blog reports that in the early hours of September 6, 2025, bulldozers accompanied by security operatives stormed the Ojuleru area, tearing down houses while residents were still asleep.

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Men, women, and children were forced into the darkness without a chance to gather their belongings. By morning, entire families were stranded without shelter, their lives reduced to rubble overnight.

This latest operation comes after a string of demolition exercises that have shaken the community since 2023.

In March this year, task force officials and police swept through parts of Coker, Oke Eri, and Mosafejo, demolishing homes within days of arrival. Residents said they received little or no notice and accused officials of looting properties and using excessive force.

Many believe the demolitions go beyond urban renewal, describing them as an attempt to displace the poor in order to make way for luxury estates.

Community associations have repeatedly appealed to the Lagos State Government to halt the demolitions. They are demanding thorough verification of property documents, fair compensation, and adequate support for displaced families.

According to them, genuine development should include existing residents rather than erase them.

Youth groups have also raised concerns, insisting that thousands have already been forced out and accusing the government of turning Oworonshoki into an exclusive zone for the wealthy.

The humanitarian toll is evident across the community. Families now sleep in makeshift shelters, children are out of school, and many victims struggle with illness and hunger. For some, decades of hard work and savings vanished in a single night.

Civic groups and activists are calling on the state government to suspend further demolitions, provide urgent relief and resettlement, and deliver justice for the victims.

The Lagos State House of Assembly has also been urged to intervene before the crisis escalates further.

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