By KP Reporter
Residents of Coker Oworonshoki in Kosofe, Lagos, have raised concerns over the unexpected deployment of a large contingent of Lagos State Task Force operatives and the Nigeria Police to their community. The presence of the security personnel has sparked fears of a renewed wave of building demolitions, a controversial issue that has previously displaced many inhabitants.
Community leaders and stakeholders have called on the Lagos State Government to provide clarity on its intentions and engage affected residents in dialogue. Omooba Awofeso Rasheed Ololade, a prominent voice in the area, emphasized the need for transparency in government actions.
“The government must come out to let people in the zone know the proper position of development. A stakeholders’ meeting should be held with the occupiers. The pain inflicted on the victims of last year’s demolitions has left many scars. It is equally important for intending land buyers to always verify the status of properties with appropriate government agencies to avoid situations like this,” he said.
Similarly, Engr. Olusola Emmanuel Adedayo, Publisher and CEO of MOSCHINOBLOG, condemned both the Lagos State Government and the traditional leadership for what he described as a lack of accountability in their approach.
“It’s an indictment on the part of the Lagos State Government and the Oba of Oworonshoki. They should come out and make a pronouncement on the matter rather than this ‘GESTAPO’ approach of demolition. The one that happened last July is still fresh in the memories of the inhabitants,” Adedayo stated.
The fear of demolition is rooted in past actions by the Lagos State Government, which saw many homes reportedly destroyed, leaving numerous families displaced and struggling to rebuild their lives. The uncertainty surrounding the latest deployment of security personnel has heightened anxiety among residents, who are demanding clear communication and engagement from authorities to avoid further distress.
As tension mounts, all eyes remain on the Lagos State Government for an official statement addressing the concerns of the Coker Oworonshoki community.