Popular Nigerian singer Yemi Alade has spoken out against the Lagos State Government’s recent demolition of houses in Maryland, criticizing the move as “ruining the real estate value of the state and country” and leaving citizens homeless overnight.
In a video message shared on her Instagram account, Alade expressed her dismay, saying, “Lagos State, what’s going on? Does it make sense that people will invest millions of naira and dollars into real estate, buy houses and lands, and the state government will demolish the place and render people homeless overnight?”
She lamented the repeated demolitions, citing the impact on citizens and the real estate sector, driving away potential investors and contributing to a negative perception of the state’s development.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, explained that the demolished houses were constructed on drainage channels, and the developers had encroached on the setback, obstructing rainwater flow. He stated that the government had shown magnanimity by reducing the Right of Way (ROW) from 140 meters to 100 meters, but the structures were still obstructing the drainage alignment.
The demolition has sparked controversy, with many calling for a more considerate approach to urban development. Yemi Alade’s outspoken criticism has added to the growing concern about the government’s actions.