Gov. Sanwo-Olu Defends Makoko Demolition, Announces Support Measures for Affected Residents

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has come out in defense of the ongoing demolition exercise in the Makoko waterfront community, describing it as a painful but necessary step to "avert tragedy." Speaking on Monday following the signing of the 2026 budget, the Governor emphasized that the primary target of the exercise is shanties and structures built dangerously close to high-tension power lines. He maintained that the government’s priority is the overall safety of the citizens rather than any ulterior motive.

The Governor clarified that the clearance is focused on maintaining a safety corridor of 150 to 250 meters from high-voltage cables and preventing further encroachment onto the Third Mainland Bridge. He noted that evacuation notices had been served to the affected areas for over two years, but many residents failed to comply. Sanwo-Olu argued that the state cannot "fold its arms" while residents live in environments where a single electrical fault or structural collapse could lead to mass casualties.

​Addressing the growing outcry from local and international Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), the Governor accused some groups of exploiting the situation for financial gain. He claimed that certain organizations have profited from international grants while failing to deliver on the promises made to improve the lives of the slum dwellers. Sanwo-Olu stated that the government is currently "studying things" and will soon present evidence of these alleged falsehoods to the public.

​Despite the firm stance on the demolition, the Governor acknowledged the hardship faced by displaced families and has ordered immediate compassionate interventions. He instructed relevant ministries and local governments to roll out palliatives, including relocation stipends and "succour" for those affected. This move is intended to show that while the state must enforce urban planning and safety regulations, it remains a "compassionate government" sensitive to the plight of the vulnerable.

However, the exercise continues to face stiff resistance and criticism from community leaders who claim the demolition has extended far beyond the initially agreed-upon safety zones. Reports from the waterfront indicate that thousands have been rendered homeless, with some families now living in canoes on the lagoon. As the state moves forward with its urban renewal agenda, the balance between public safety and the human rights of informal settlers remains a point of intense debate in Lagos.