Residents of Jakande Estate in Lagos protest against demolition plans, demanding fair compensation and enforcement of a court injunction

Residents of Jakande Estate, Ilesan, Lagos, staged a peaceful protest at the State House of Assembly complex on Tuesday, objecting to moves by the state government to demolish their homes.

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Alhaji Abdulhameed Shuaib led the protesters, who carried placards reading: “Demolition without adequate compensation is injustice,” “Please stop forceful eviction,” and “No compensation, no demolition @ Jakande Estate Ilesan.”

Shuaib appealed to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to halt further demolition, respect an existing court injunction, and ensure a fair resolution.

He stressed that any compensation should reflect the true value of the homes.

The dispute began in 2025 when residents were informed they would be evicted and offered ₦6 million for a three-bedroom flat, an amount they rejected as inadequate.

Subsequent offers of ₦7 million and ₦11 million were also declined, particularly as residents were asked to submit original property documents with delayed payment promises.

About 50 buildings were demolished in March 2025 before residents obtained a court injunction restraining further demolitions, which has now been extended until 4 February 2026.

Shuaib claimed demolition threats persist, with reports that tenants were offered only ₦50,000 to vacate and that heavy machinery recently entered the estate.

Two residents were reportedly arrested for confronting a demolition team with court papers and are being held at a police facility in Oshodi.

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Addressing the protesters, Mr Setonji David, representing Badagry 2 constituency, urged calm while the Assembly investigates the matter.