Lagos, Nigeria — November 14, 2025 — Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has reiterated his administration’s commitment to “fairness, transparency, and the welfare of residents” amid ongoing demolition operations in Oworonshoki.
During the second phase of compensation for those affected, the Lagos State Urban Renewal Agency (LASURA) disbursed cheques to 100 additional displaced persons, following an earlier payment to 79 residents. The payment event was attended by community leaders, traditional rulers, and agency officials.
Compensation amounts ranged from ₦1 million to ₦5 million, depending on the value of demolished properties, LASURA said. Some beneficiaries expressed deep gratitude: one woman, Rosemary Nwaoha, said her ₦1 million payout was “timely and helpful,” and Patrick Arinze, who received ₦3 million, thanked the government for responding to residents’ concerns.
Oladimeji Animashaun, General Manager of LASURA, emphasized that the compensation will continue in phases to ensure all verified claimants are covered. He added that the government is committed to resettling eligible residents and will not deny anyone their right to own property.
Sanwo-Olu’s reassertion of fairness comes against a backdrop of controversy: the demolition exercise in September triggered protests and the temporary blockade of the Third Mainland Bridge by angry residents. Critics had earlier accused the government of unjust eviction and displacement.
Civil society groups and development advocates have called for the affected communities to be resettled with dignity, urging that urban renewal not come at the cost of people’s homes and lives.
In his remarks, Animashaun reiterated the government’s long-term vision for Oworonshoki: to transform it into a modern, well-planned community with safer housing, improved infrastructure, and improved living standards.