Residents of Lagos Island are raising their voices in protest against the unjust demolition of their properties by the Lagos State Government. Akinlawon Abraham, a concerned resident, took to Twitter to express his grievances and call out the Lagos Building Control Agency (LaSBCA) for their actions.
In an open letter addressed to the Governor, Akinlawon Abraham respectfully appealed for intervention regarding the demolition of their properties located in Lagos Island.
According to the letter, the residents had made the decision to conduct routine maintenance on their properties in March 2023. However, their plans were abruptly disrupted when the LASBCA served them with a notice, instructing them to carry out a Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) in April.
Responding promptly to the notice, the residents applied for the NDT test at the Lagos State Materials Testing Laboratory, fully aware that the results would be available by May 2023. To their astonishment and dismay, the LASBCA proceeded to demolish their properties in May, even before the test results were released. Adding to the injustice, all valuable possessions attached to the properties were sold without their consent.
In light of this distressing situation, the residents are appealing to the Governor, along with other influential figures such as the Deputy Governor, the Honorable Speaker of the House of Assembly, the Attorney General of Lagos State, the General Manager of LASBCA, and the Legal Unit of LASBCA, to utilize their positions of authority and address this matter urgently.
The residents believe that as taxpayers in Lagos State, they deserve fair treatment and a thorough investigation into the unjust demolition of their properties.
The demolition of homes and the subsequent sale of valuable assets without due process and consideration for the residents’ rights is a matter of grave concern. It not only infringes upon the property rights of the affected individuals but also undermines their trust in the government’s commitment to protecting its citizens. The residents are hopeful that their appeal will receive the attention it deserves and that appropriate action will be taken to rectify the situation.
Demolition should be carried out with caution, ensuring that proper protocols and legal procedures are followed to safeguard the rights and interests of the residents. It is crucial for government agencies such as LASBCA to act responsibly and transparently, taking into account the welfare and well-being of the citizens they serve.
The case of the Lagos Island residents serves as a reminder of the importance of effective communication, fairness, and accountability in governance. The authorities must demonstrate their commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting the rights of individuals, particularly when it involves the demolition of their homes and properties.
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