Lawmakers Propose Housing Solution for Displaced Makoko Waterfront Communities
Korede Abdullah LAGOS, Nigeria – The Lagos State House of Assembly proposes relocating residents displaced by recent demolitions in Makoko, Sogunro and Oko-Agbon waterfront settlements to a new housing area in Agbowa, Epe Local Government Area.
The proposal emerges after affected residents petitioned lawmakers following the state government’s demolition of structures described as illegal waterfront buildings.
Chairman of the House Committee on Rules and Business, Noheem Adams, tells journalists in Lagos on Wednesday that the initiative aims to address the humanitarian impact on vulnerable residents.
“The demolition has left many people homeless, including the elderly, women and children,” Adams says. “The House is considering relocation to a low-cost housing estate where residents can continue their fishing activities.”
According to him, lawmakers reached the recommendation after conducting oversight visits and holding several meetings with community representatives and government officials.
Adams explains that the House also asked the governor to instruct the Special Adviser on E-GIS to review the enumeration report submitted by the affected communities.
He says the relocation plan seeks to ensure that displaced families regain access to housing while preserving their traditional fishing livelihoods.
“The communities have lived on the water for many years because fishing is their primary occupation,” Adams notes.
Lawmakers also recommend involving the Oloto of the Otto Family, recognised as the traditional landowners, in the development of the proposed Water City Project linked to the redevelopment of the area.
The Assembly says the move aims to balance urban planning goals with the welfare of displaced residents.
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Oluwatobi Adu 
Mirian Gom 
Oluwafunbi Bello 
Chukwu Obinna