The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State has defended the recent wave of demolitions across parts of the state, insisting that no responsible government can turn a blind eye to illegal structures that threaten public safety and urban order.
The party made this known in a statement on Tuesday following public outrage and criticism from affected residents who described the demolition exercise as harsh and inconsiderate. The Lagos APC, however, maintained that the action was necessary to restore sanity to the state’s physical planning system and protect the lives of millions of residents.
According to the statement signed by the party’s Publicity Secretary, Mr. Seye Oladejo, the government’s decision was not politically motivated but a continuation of its long-standing commitment to uphold urban planning laws and environmental standards.
No responsible government will fold its arms and allow indiscriminate construction on flood channels, road setbacks, and government-acquired lands. The ongoing demolitions are part of the efforts to reclaim public spaces, prevent flooding, and ensure safety,” Oladejo said.
He added that while the government understands the emotional and economic impact on affected individuals, the rule of law must be upheld for the greater good of society.
We sympathize with those affected, but citizens must recognize that development must follow due process. The law is clear, and government agencies have, over the years, issued several notices to property owners who ignored repeated warnings,” he stated.
The APC also dismissed claims by opposition figures that the demolition exercise was targeted at certain ethnic or political groups. The party emphasized that the enforcement drive cuts across all parts of Lagos, irrespective of religion, tribe, or party affiliation.
It is mischievous for anyone to play politics with urban enforcement. The same standards apply everywhere — whether in Lekki, Alaba, or Ikorodu. The goal is to make Lagos a livable and orderly city for all,” the statement added.
Urban development experts have backed the state government’s position, noting that the proliferation of illegal structures has contributed significantly to drainage blockage, traffic congestion, and unsafe living conditions. They urged the government to pair enforcement with affordable housing schemes to cushion the impact on displaced persons.
Meanwhile, civil rights groups have called on the state government to ensure transparency in its urban renewal policies and provide fair compensation where applicable. They also urged authorities to communicate more clearly with residents before carrying out such exercises to reduce public tension and misunderstanding.
As the debate continues, the Lagos APC reiterated its full support for Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s urban renewal agenda, stressing that the state’s transformation into a modern megacity requires strict adherence to planning regulations.