In a recent development that has left many residents in distress, the Lagos State Government initiated the demolition of shanties and makeshift structures in the Jakande estate area of Lekki.
The abrupt action caught residents off guard, leaving them grappling with sudden homelessness alongside their families.
The eviction operation, spearheaded by officials from the State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, commenced on March 11 with the aid of the Task Force.
As bulldozers razed several buildings and shanties, residents watched helplessly, expressing frustration and despair.
Timothy John, one of the affected residents, voiced his anguish over the demolition, lamenting the loss of his home and the uncertainty of where to seek shelter.
“My house has been demolished. I am standing right here in front of my house, I don’t even know where to stay,” he shared, reflecting the sentiments of many in the community.
With belongings scattered amidst the debris, residents faced the daunting task of salvaging what they could from the wreckage. Many, like Williams Anayo, appealed to the Lagos State Government for urgent assistance, emphasizing the dire predicament of those left homeless by the demolition.
The aftermath of the demolition has triggered a housing crisis in the area, with displaced residents scrambling to secure alternative accommodation.
Mariam Shaibu, who recounted her arduous search for a new home, highlighted the exorbitant costs exacerbated by the sudden surge in demand.
“I have been searching for a house for over a week now. The houses are more expensive now following this demolition as people are desperate,” she lamented, citing financial constraints and the reluctance to abandon livelihoods tied to the Lekki environment.
Amidst the chaos, stories of hardship abound, with Mary Odili recounting a harrowing incident where a neighbor’s house was set ablaze while they slept inside, underscoring the gravity of the situation faced by Jakande estate residents.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of the demolition, calls for intervention and support from government authorities resonate strongly, echoing the urgent need for tangible solutions to alleviate the plight of those displaced from their homes in Lekki’s Jakande estate.