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Human rights attorney, Femi Falana, SAN, has claimed that the Lagos State Government demolished at least 100 properties in Oworonsoki, despite a court-issued restraining order.
Last Thursday, Justice Adegboyega Balogun of the Lagos State High Court issued an interim order prohibiting further demolitions of properties in certain areas of Oworonsoki, following complaints from affected residents who stated they had not received any compensation.
Justice Balogun granted the restraining order against the respondents and their agents or contractors, preventing them from conducting additional demolitions or establishing third-party interests over properties located on Ojileru Street, Ososa Extension, and Toluwalase Street within the Itesiwaju Ajumoni Community Development Area (CDA).
In a statement on Sunday, Falana expressed that the recent demolition efforts have resulted in many families being displaced.
“In blatant violation and contempt of the existing court order, and after the court order was served to them, the defendants deployed over 50 armed policemen and thugs who discharged tear gas throughout the night to disperse the protesters against the demolition and proceeded to initiate a new demolition.
“The demolition, conducted under the cover of darkness, has resulted in the destruction of no fewer than 100 properties, displacing numerous families. The actions of the demolition team were not authorized by any court.
“This conduct by the demolition team serves as a troubling reminder of the serious contempt displayed by the Lagos State Government 39 years ago in the notable case of The Military Governor of Lagos State & Ors. v. Chief Emeka Odumegwu Ojukwu & Anor. (1986) 2 NWLR (PT 18) 621, where the Supreme Court established a precedent against the disregard for due process and the rule of law.
Even though the country was under military rule at that time, the Supreme Court condemned the actions of the Lagos State Government for defying a court order and resorting to self-help,” the statement concluded.
Frequently Asked Questions
What properties were affected by the demolition?
The demolition affected properties located on Ojileru Street, Ososa Extension, and Toluwalase Street within the Itesiwaju Ajumoni Community Development Area.
What was the court's decision regarding the demolition?
Justice Adegboyega Balogun issued an interim order to stop further demolitions in Oworonsoki, citing complaints from residents who claimed they had not received compensation.
Who is Femi Falana?
Femi Falana is a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and a prominent human rights lawyer known for his advocacy on legal and human rights issues in Nigeria.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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