In a tragic turn of events, the Federal Housing Authority (FHA) has embarked on the demolition of houses in various estates within the Amuwo Odofin Local Government Area of Lagos State. Several palatial houses, including duplexes, have been razed to the ground, causing immense distress to property owners.
The affected area, including King’s Royal Estate in the Abule Ado area, witnessed heartbreaking scenes as bulldozers charged at and leveled buildings. Heart-wrenching videos and photos on social media captured distraught residents hastily evacuating their possessions.
The reasons cited for the demolition include alleged contravention of housing and development regulations. Eviction and demolition notices by FHA were reportedly sprayed in red ink on many buildings, with markings dating back to August and September, indicating that these structures had been marked for demolition.
Some residents claimed that property owners offered bribes, including substantial amounts like N50 million, to prevent the demolition of their houses. However, these alleged attempts were reportedly unsuccessful, with authorities insisting on the enforcement of housing regulations.
The affected homeowners, many of whom are traders at Trade Fair, a nearby market, are now grappling with the loss of their homes and the significant financial investments made in constructing the demolished structures.
Amidst the destruction, reports suggest that four landlords have died due to grief, and others are said to be facing health challenges such as heart-related problems and hypertension.
The FHA had earlier disclosed plans to demolish 677 houses, with an additional 744 structures partially marked for demolition due to infringements by a developer in the area. The agency emphasized encroachment and illegal development on swampy land, labeling the affected area as Festac Phase 2.
Efforts to get comments from FHA have not been successful at the time of reporting.
The demolition has left residents in a state of despair, mourning the loss of their homes and contemplating an uncertain future.