Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour criticises Lagos Oworonshoki demolitions as poorly planned, urging transparency, fair compensation, and humane urban renewal

The 2023 Labour Party governorship candidate in Lagos State, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, has criticised the ongoing demolitions in Oworonshoki, calling the exercise poorly planned and lacking empathy for affected residents.

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Speaking on Arise News on Tuesday, Rhodes-Vivour urged the Lagos State Government to adhere to the rule of law in urban renewal projects, warning that arbitrary demolitions discourage investment and erode public trust.

“There is absolute lawlessness because there’s a judgment. If the state wants the citizenry to respect the rule of law, it must show that example,” he said.

Rhodes-Vivour described the compensation process for displaced residents as a “charade,” accusing the government of favouring the wealthy while neglecting the majority of poor residents.

“Lagos’ approach appears intentional in housing the rich, while neglecting the needs of 75% of its poor residents,” he added.

He emphasised that proper planning and community engagement at the local government level are essential before any relocation or compensation processes.

“There should be a proper proposal for how they will move these people. Where are they being moved to? Payments must be made before these demolitions start to happen,” Rhodes-Vivour said.

The Lagos State Government began demolition exercises in Coker and Ojulari areas of Oworonshoki in September, citing illegal constructions along drainage channels and right-of-way violations.

The operations, conducted by the Lagos State Department for Urban Development and Planning and the Task Force on Environmental and Special Offences, often occurred late at night, leaving residents displaced and sparking widespread criticism.

Protests have erupted, including residents blocking the Third Mainland Bridge and staging rallies at the Lagos State House of Assembly demanding compensation and an end to demolitions.

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The government, however, maintains that building permits are mandatory and that enforcement is in line with state laws.