by George Ozalla
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has expressed grave concern over recent demolitions and evictions in Lagos and Anambra States, warning that the actions raise serious human rights implications.
Dr. Tony Ojukwu OFR, SAN, Executive Secretary of the Commission, described the ongoing demolitions of waterfront and informal settlements in Makoko, Lagos, as alarming, noting that thousands of residents have been displaced. He emphasized that carrying out demolitions without adequate notice, compensation, or resettlement plans leaves families homeless and destroys livelihoods.
According to a statement signed by Fatimah Agwai Mohammed, Director of Corporate Affairs and External Linkages, Dr. Ojukwu said such actions contravene constitutional guarantees of dignity, housing, and family life, as well as Nigeria’s international human rights obligations. He added that court rulings prohibiting forced evictions are being disregarded, undermining the rule of law and eroding public confidence in governance.
The Commission called for an immediate halt to the demolitions to allow meaningful consultations with affected communities and the provision of adequate resettlement and compensation.
Dr. Ojukwu also raised concern over the enforcement of sit-at-home directives in Anambra State, which led to the closure of Onitsha Main Market. While commending the state government for taking steps to stop the illegal practice, he noted that collective punishment of traders raises questions about the right to livelihood, freedom of movement, and due process.
The economic impact of the sit-at-home orders is significant, with the Anambra State Government estimating losses of ₦8 billion every Monday. Traders cited fear of violence as the reason for compliance, highlighting the need for stronger protection and confidence-building measures.
He urged the state government to prioritize dialogue, ensure security for traders, and adopt measures that protect both economic activity and human rights. Dr. Ojukwu stressed that development, law enforcement, and economic governance must always respect fundamental rights, warning that forced evictions and collective sanctions erode trust in government and risk social instability.
