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LAGOS DEMOLITIONS AND ETHNIC COLOURATION
Demolitions must be fair and transparent because of the untold hardship and agonies they create, argues Pat Onukwuli
It is no longer news that the Lagos State Government and the Federal Housing Authority have been involved in several property demolitions in various parts of Lagos. What is worrisome about the news is the insinuation that the demolition is part of an underground plot to expel some ethnic groups from Lagos, particularly Ndigbo. Social media is awash with video evidence of where a popular Pentecostal Pastor claimed to be in a meeting where it was said that the demolitions were intended to checkmate the Igbos, who have bought the whole of Lagos. This assertion, coming from a man of God leaves much to be desired.
Attributing the ownership or control of a particular region solely to a specific ethnic group can be misleading, divisive, and potentially harmful. Such statements may contribute to ethnic tensions, foster stereotypes, and create a sense of exclusion among different communities. Lagos, a diverse and cosmopolitan city, is home to people from various ethnic backgrounds and cultures. Characterising any group as having complete ownership or control can oversimplify complex social dynamics and perpetuate harmful narratives.
Similar statements and footages have inundated the public space, mainly social media, with some commentators giving it broader political connotations that Ndigbo backed the wrong horse at the just concluded elections and, therefore, must be made to face damning consequences. Annoyingly, some Igbo opinion moulders have bought into this charade by calling their people to relocate back to the Southeast.
Thus, discussions surrounding the demolitions of properties in Lagos should not take this unfortunate turn. It is crucial to emphasise that viewing the demolitions through ethnic lens not only oversimplifies complex urban development issues but also risks exacerbating ethnic tensions. These demolitions should rightly be considered part of a broader effort to address urban challenges and create a sustainable future for all residents.
Lagos, one of Africa’s largest and most dynamic cities, faces many urban development challenges. Rapid population growth, inadequate infrastructure, and modernisation are just a few factors contributing to the need for strategic urban planning and development initiatives. The government’s decision to demolish specific structures should be analysed within the context of addressing these challenges rather than being seen as a targeted effort against a particular ethnic group. Any perception of bias or discrimination based on ethnicity can contribute to social tensions and hinder the community and society’s overall development and unity.
Demolitions are sometimes imperative and justified. Legal, safety, economic, and urban planning considerations often influence demolition decisions. These include structural instability, public safety, urban development and redevelopment, zoning violations, health and environmental concerns, illegal constructions, redundancy and obsolescence, government projects, and land assembly. It is, however, crucial to note that the decision to demolish should be made carefully considering the impact on the community, and authorities should adhere to legal procedures, conduct proper risk assessments, and provide fair compensation when necessary.
Community engagement and adequate communication are essential components of responsible demolition practices. Additionally, demolitions and urban development projects should prioritise the well-being of all residents, regardless of their ethnic background. Government actions should be transparent, accountable, and considerate of the diverse population affected by such measures. Demolitions should, therefore, have a human face and be made for people, not people for them. Accordingly, the recent seven-day notice given to owners of properties abutting the Ikota River, Lagos, by Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, to vacate the place or have their properties demolished appears draconian and out of touch with fair demolition procedures. How can families relocate in under seven days?
Demolitions must not only be devoid of any ethnic colourations but must also be fair and transparent because of the untold hardship and agonies they create. They are associated with displacement of families and homelessness, emotional and psychological stress, economic loss, social disruption and disintegration, loss of cultural and historical heritage, and so forth. They impact vulnerable populations long-term and leave a lifetime of bitter memories. Some people, as well as some communities, do not recover from them.
Well-meaning Nigerians should stand up against unfair demolition practices. Against this backdrop, it is very commendable that Senator Victor Umeh, representing Anambra Central Senatorial District, who is also the Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Land, Housing, and Urban Development, has meaningfully intervened by calling on the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Architect Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, to put an immediate halt to the demolition of houses in the Abule-Ado FESTAC Extension Area pending thorough investigations.
The distinguished Senator frowned at the exercise, stressing that it is unjust for people to acquire lands legitimately, and after documentation with relevant government agencies and putting up structures, they would wake up someday seeing the lands revoked and their houses brought down for one reason or the other. Properties do not spring up from the ground overnight. Behind every construction project are government officials who give the needed certifications and approvals. What happens to such public officers, who are usually left out of the picture? There should be punitive sanctions against them to serve as a deterrent to others.
Ndigbo and, indeed, other ethnic groups should ignore calls to vacate Lagos. They should continue their lawful businesses and cohabit peacefully and harmoniously with their host communities. The Igbo have a saying that ebe mmadụ bi, ka ona-wachi, meaning where one lives is where he prospers. This underscores the idea that individuals have the promise and, to some extent, a responsibility to thrive and succeed in their residential environment. The adage encourages people to actively engage with and contribute to their local communities, fostering personal and collective well-being.
Section 41(1) of the 1999 Constitution provides that every citizen of Nigeria is entitled to move freely throughout Nigeria and to reside in any part thereof. This constitutional provision prohibits discriminatory practices that might hinder individuals from moving or living in any part of Nigeria based on ethnicity, religion, or other factors. This right is fundamental to a unified and inclusive nation, promoting the mobility and residence of citizens without undue restrictions. It is an essential aspect of the protection of individual liberties and the promotion of national unity.
Similarly, Section 43 of the Constitution stipulates that every citizen of Nigeria shall have the right to acquire and own immovable property anywhere in Nigeria. This provision is pivotal in ensuring individual property rights, promoting economic activities, and fostering a sense of national belonging. It is a cornerstone stipulation that helps safeguard individual liberties, economic opportunities, and national cohesion. It also promotes and shapes the socio-economic landscape of Nigeria for the better. Thus, in the grand tapestry of constitutional guarantees, this right to acquire and own immovable property emerges as a vibrant thread, weaving together the aspirations of its citizens. This provision empowers individuals economically and is pivotal in promoting national unity and inclusivity.
The diversity of Lagos, with its residents representing various ethnicities and cultures, is one of its greatest strengths. However, it is essential to resist the temptation to ascribe every government action to ethnic motivations. Doing so not only oversimplifies the complexities of governance but also risks stoking unwarranted fears and suspicions among different ethnic nationalities.
As the demolitions in Lagos continue, the Lagos State government and the Federal Housing Authority need to prioritise transparency, fairness, and community engagement. A robust legal framework is vital to guide and regulate property demolitions. Building trust with the public, respecting individual rights, and fostering an inclusive decision-making process will contribute to a more harmonious and resilient Lagos. Striking a balance between development and preserving community identity is a responsibility and a shared commitment to building a Lagos that thrives as a diverse and united metropolis.
.Onukwuli, PhD, writes from Bolton, UK, via
