Hunger, Deaths, and Displacement: Analyzing the Aftermath of Demolitions at Makoko and Sogunro

By Elizabeth Osayande | Published: January 15, 2026

The demolition of structures within 100 meters of the power line in the Makoko waterfront community has escalated into a severe humanitarian crisis. As the Lagos State Government continues its enforcement operations, residents are facing acute hunger, displacement, and, according to reports, tragic loss of life. This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the situation, the responses from civil society and the government, and the broader implications for urban planning and human rights in Lagos.

Introduction

The Makoko waterfront community, a densely populated settlement along the Lagos Lagoon, has become the epicenter of a contentious urban renewal operation. What began as a structural clearance initiative to enforce safety regulations has rapidly evolved into a complex socio-economic crisis. With thousands displaced and essential services disrupted, the situation highlights the friction between urban development mandates and the immediate survival needs of vulnerable populations. This report examines the unfolding events, the human cost of the demolitions, and the conflicting narratives surrounding the government’s actions.

Key Points

Background

Makoko is a well-known informal settlement in Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial capital. Built largely on stilts over the water, it houses tens of thousands of low-income residents. Over the years, the community has faced multiple threats of eviction due to its proximity to critical infrastructure, specifically the high-tension power lines that traverse the waterfront.

The Lagos State Government has long argued that habitation within 100 meters of the power line poses a significant safety risk. In previous years, demolition notices were issued, citing the need to prevent electrocution and structural interference with the power grid. However, the implementation of these notices has often been met with resistance and controversy, given the lack of alternative housing for displaced residents.

Analysis of the Current Crisis

The current wave of demolitions marks a critical escalation in the long-standing dispute. The operation has not only targeted structures in Makoko but has also spilled over into the neighboring suburb of Sogunro. The impact is multifaceted, affecting physical safety, economic stability, and psychological well-being.

Humanitarian Impact and Hunger

The most immediate consequence of the demolitions is the loss of shelter and access to basic sustenance. Residents have taken to the streets, pleading for food and clothing. The destruction of homes has disrupted livelihoods, leaving many without the means to purchase daily meals.

Distress signals from the community paint a grim picture. One resident, communicating via an SOS message, described the dire situation: “Mummy, another woman has been shot now. I went outside to get food. Many of us, especially the orphans, don’t have anything to eat. We are finished, ma.”

Another resident from Sogunro, a suburb of Iwaya bordering Makoko, echoed these sentiments: “Our homes have been demolished. Since morning, we have not eaten. Please, find us something, even if it is N2,000, so that we can eat.” These testimonies highlight the immediate economic shock following the physical destruction of property.

Reports of Fatalities and Rights Violations

Human rights organizations have raised alarms regarding the human cost of the demolition exercise. Three prominent civil society organizations—the Centre for Children’s Health Education, Orientation and Protection (CEE-HOPE), the Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF), and Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA)—have issued a joint condemnation of the Lagos State Government.

These groups describe the demolitions as “brutal and unconstitutional.” According to their reports, the operation has resulted in the deaths of two young children and a 70-year-old woman. Furthermore, they estimate that over 10,000 citizens have been displaced, and a community youth leader was reportedly arrested during the operation.

Nnimmo Bassey, Director of HOMEF, characterized the government’s actions as a “violent attack on the urban poor.” He stated, “We see these latest attacks on vulnerable populations as the most violent manifestations of the Lagos State government’s contempt for those it treats as human scrap to be cleared for elite profit. The thuggish arrest of community members and the forced displacement of families who have always called Makoko home underscores the helplessness of struggling Nigerians.”

The organizations argue that the demolitions illustrate a pattern of neglect for constitutional rights to life, housing, and dignity, particularly among marginalized citizens in Lagos.

Official Government Response

In contrast to the accounts provided by residents and activists, the Lagos State Government has defended the demolitions as a necessary legal and safety measure. The government’s position focuses on the enforcement of urban planning laws designed to protect lives and property.

The Safety Mandate

Mr. Gbolahan Oki, the Permanent Secretary of the Office of Urban Development, provided the government’s official perspective. He clarified that the government is acting in the interest of public safety, specifically regarding the high-tension power lines running through the waterfront.

“There is no problem with Makoko,” Oki stated, suggesting that the issue lies with specific illegal structures. “The people of Makoko have been united in this matter. We have been discussing this for the last five years, holding meetings and begging them to comply. Those making noise now are the stubborn individuals who do not want to leave the area. The law stipulates a 100-meter clearance from the power line.”

The government’s argument rests on the premise that continued habitation within the buffer zone poses a lethal risk. Officials warn that if an unauthorized structure were to interfere with the power lines—particularly those running over the water—the consequences could be fatal for the residents.

Protest and Compliance

Reports indicate that a planned protest against the demolitions had a low turnout, consisting mainly of youths carrying placards with messages such as “Please hear our cry,” “Maintain 100 meters,” and “Protect our homes, save our families.” The government interprets this as evidence of broad compliance or lack of support for the resistance, though activists argue it reflects fear and intimidation within the community.

Practical Advice for Residents and Stakeholders

In the wake of such a disruptive event, affected residents and stakeholders need to navigate the immediate crisis while planning for long-term stability. While the situation is volatile, certain steps can be taken to mitigate risks and access support.

Immediate Survival Strategies

• Community Solidarity Networks: Residents should form or join local support groups to pool resources. Sharing food and water among neighbors can help bridge the gap until external aid arrives.
• Documentation of Loss: It is vital to document the destruction of property. Taking photos or videos (where safe) and keeping a record of lost assets can be crucial for future legal claims or compensation requests.
• Seeking Humanitarian Aid: Engage with local NGOs such as CEE-HOPE and HOMEF, which have expressed commitment to supporting the community. These organizations often have channels for distributing food and medical supplies.

Legal and Advocacy Steps

• Know Your Rights: Under Nigerian law, forced evictions without adequate notice and provision of alternative housing can be challenged. While the government cites safety regulations, residents have rights to dignity and housing.
• Contact Legal Aid: Organizations like the Nigerian Bar Association’s Section on Public Interest Law or pro-bono human rights lawyers can offer legal advice regarding the legality of the demolitions.
• Civic Engagement: Residents and allies should continue to engage civil society organizations to amplify their voices on national and international platforms.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why are demolitions happening in Makoko?

The demolitions are being carried out by the Lagos State Government to enforce a 100-meter clearance zone from high-tension power lines along the waterfront. The government cites public safety as the primary reason, arguing that structures in this zone pose a risk of electrocution and fire.

How many people have been affected?

Civil society organizations estimate that over 10,000 residents have been displaced across Makoko and the neighboring Sogunro community. Many have lost their homes and possessions.

Are there confirmed deaths?

Human rights groups (CEE-HOPE, HOMEF, CAPPA) have alleged that the demolitions resulted in the deaths of two children and a 70-year-old woman. These claims are based on reports from the community. The Lagos State Government has not officially confirmed these fatalities in the provided statements.

What is the government offering to displaced residents?

Based on the available reports from the Permanent Secretary of the Office of Urban Development, the government is focused on enforcing the clearance laws. There is no mention in the provided statements of immediate relocation or compensation packages for the displaced residents.

Is Sogunro also affected?

Yes. Sogunro, a suburb of Iwaya bordering Makoko, has also experienced demolitions. Residents there report similar issues of homelessness and hunger following the government’s operations.

Conclusion

The situation at Makoko and Sogunro represents a critical flashpoint in the management of urban development in Lagos. While the government asserts its legal right to enforce safety clearances, the humanitarian cost—characterized by hunger, displacement, and alleged loss of life—demands urgent attention. The disconnect between policy enforcement and social welfare has left thousands in a precarious position. Moving forward, a balanced approach that respects legal safety standards while upholding the constitutional rights to housing and dignity is essential to prevent further tragedy.