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By Daniel Kanu
A civil society organization that identified itself as the New Voice of Lagos has strongly condemned the Lagos State government for the increasing use of state-sanctioned violence, including unlawful demolitions and thuggery.
The group disclosed that it had gathered extensive evidence, including eyewitness accounts, photos, and videos, revealing a pattern of gross human rights violations and disregard for the rule of law.
In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Omokehinde Agbe, the group demanded, among other things, immediate cessation of unlawful demolitions, prosecution of those involved in violence and human rights violations, compensation and resettlement for victims of unlawful demolitions as well as transparency and due process in future demolition exercises.
The statement listed the recent demolition incidents including Oko Baba Sawmill Market and Owode Onirin Spare Part Market, where heavily armed thugs, acting with law enforcement, terrorized traders, looted goods, and destroyed stalls, the Ipakere, Noforija, Eredo LCDA, and Epe Market, where market stalls have been destroyed, impacting local people’s livelihoods.
Others are Oworonshoki, Orisunmibare, Otto, and Otumare Ilaje community demolitions which have left residents homeless and traumatized, with reports of physical violence, intimidation, and arbitrary arrest.
The group noted the consistent use of thugs as a deliberate strategy by the Lagos State Government to circumvent due process and intimidate citizens. It therefore calls on the international community, human rights organizations, and concerned individuals to join them in condemning these egregious acts and demanding justice for the victims.
