In case you missed it, weeks after extensive demolitions at the Oworonshoki waterfront left thousands of residents homeless, the Lagos State Government has announced plans to construct a N7 billion jetty and develop new housing schemes in the area, a move that has reignited public debate over the fate of displaced residents.
The disclosure was made on Friday by the Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Mr. Dayo Bush-Alebiosu, during an interaction with journalists in Lagos. He said the state had secured approval to build a jetty at the Oworonshoki waterfront and to roll out housing projects as part of a broader urban regeneration initiative.
Oworonshoki, in Kosofe Local Government Area, witnessed large-scale demolitions in late 2025, an exercise the government described as urban renewal. The operation, however, reportedly displaced thousands of residents, including retirees who claimed to have invested their life savings in their homes. The demolitions were also marred by allegations of inadequate notice, lack of compensation, and disregard for a court order said to have halted the exercise.
Bush-Alebiosu, who is from Kosofe Local Government, said the demolitions were not carried out by his ministry, while expressing sympathy for affected residents.
“It’s rather unfortunate that it’s my LG, so my case is very peculiar. My mother grew up here; my house is in Kosofe, so it’s more of a hometown for me. I feel the pain of the people,” he said.
He added that while he had tried to assist some victims, sustainable solutions lay in infrastructure-led development rather than short-term relief efforts.
According to him, the proposed jetty would serve multiple local governments within his federal constituency and unlock economic opportunities along the waterfront.
“We have the approval for a jetty. It’s about N7 billion. We are in discussions with Mr Governor, who has asked for additional assurances to ensure the decision is right,” he said.
The commissioner also confirmed approvals for housing developments in Oworonshoki, describing the community as strategically located and capable of attracting development currently concentrated on Lagos Island.
Despite the announcement, displaced residents continue to demand accountability, compensation, and clear assurances that the proposed housing schemes will accommodate those affected by the demolitions.