Israel Oluyemi
The Lagos State House of Assembly has announced plans to provide new homes for residents displaced by waterfront demolitions.
The relocation will focus on communities in Makoko, Sogunro, and Oko Agbon.
Lawmakers said many families lost their homes, including the elderly, women, children, and sick individuals.
Chairman of the Assembly’s Standing Committee on Rules and Business, Mr Noheem Adams, spoke to reporters in Lagos on Wednesday.
He said, “Based on our findings, we recommended that the governor should direct the Special Adviser on E-GIS to vet the enumeration report submitted by the Makoko, Sogunro and Oko-Agbon communities.”
Adams explained the relocation plan, adding, “The committee also recommended that the government relocate the remaining residents of Makoko, Sogunro and Oko-Agbon to a proposed low-cost housing estate.
This estate is to be constructed in the Agbowa area of Lagos State, Epe, where they can continue their fishing activities.”
He emphasised recognition of traditional land rights, saying, “In addition, we also advised that the government should involve the Oloto of the Otto Family in the construction of the Water City Project, recognising them as the original owners of the land.”
Lawmakers said the plan followed five meetings with residents and an oversight visit with government officials and community representatives.
Officials said the relocation aims to improve living conditions, restore safety, and prevent health and environmental hazards in the affected communities.