Operatives of the Lagos State Police Command on Wednesday, January 28 , 2026, fired teargas canisters to disperse hundreds of residents protesting at the Lagos State House of Assembly complex over ongoing mass demolitions in several communities across the state.
The protesters, drawn mainly from affected areas including Makoko, Owode Onirin, Oworonshoki, Otumara, and Baba-Ijora, gathered at the assembly gate to demand an immediate halt to the demolitions, accusing the state government of carrying out the exercises without proper consultation, compensation, or resettlement plans.
Eyewitnesses and video footage show police firing multiple canisters into the crowd as demonstrators chanted slogans such as “No consultation, no demolition” and “Our homes are not illegal.” The teargas affected not only protesters but also journalists covering the event, forcing many to flee in confusion and seek medical attention for respiratory irritation.
Several demonstrators were reportedly arrested during the dispersal, though the exact number remains unconfirmed as of press time. Police spokespersons have not yet issued an official statement on the incident or the arrests.
Background of the Demolitions The Lagos State Government has intensified demolition exercises in recent months, targeting what officials describe as “illegal structures” and “encroached” areas along waterways, rail lines, and state infrastructure corridors. Affected residents claim many of the demolished buildings were long-established homes and small businesses, with little or no prior notice or alternative housing provided.
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The protests follow similar demonstrations in recent weeks, with residents alleging that the demolitions are displacing thousands without adequate support, exacerbating poverty and homelessness in the megacity.
Public & Civil Society Reaction Amnesty International Nigeria and the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) condemned the use of teargas, calling it “disproportionate and unlawful.” They demanded immediate release of arrested protesters and a moratorium on further demolitions until proper consultations and compensation are guaranteed.
Lagos State Government spokesperson Gboyega Akosile has yet to comment on the incident, but previous statements have maintained that demolitions are carried out “in line with urban planning laws and the Lagos State Master Plan.”
This is a developing story.
By Ogungbayi Beedee Adeyemi
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