- Demolitions: Lagos Lawmakers Call for Improved Public Enlightenment
- Ogundipe expressed concern over what he described as a growing wave of misleading publications and commentaries, particularly regarding developments in the Makoko area
- The House appealed to civil society organisations and the media to exercise accuracy, restraint and responsibility in their reportage, while encouraging dialogue rather than confrontation
The Lagos State House of Assembly has called on the state government, through the Commissioner for Information, to intensify public enlightenment on the ongoing demolition exercises across the state.
Eko Hot Blog reports that Lawmakers said improved public communication would help curb misinformation, reduce tension and ensure proper understanding of government actions by residents.
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The resolution followed a motion raised under Matters of Urgent Public Importance by Ogundipe Stephen Olukayode during plenary at the Assembly complex.
Presenting the motion, Ogundipe expressed concern over what he described as a growing wave of misleading publications and commentaries, particularly regarding developments in the Makoko area. He said several reports circulating in the public space contain inaccuracies, distortions and unverified allegations capable of misinforming the public and fuelling unnecessary hostility towards the Lagos State Government.
The lawmaker stressed the need to restate the constitutional position of the House, noting that issues relating to infrastructure safety, power-line setbacks, environmental control and demolition activities fall under the authority of the executive arm of government and its regulatory agencies.
He emphasised that the Lagos State House of Assembly does not carry out demolitions, clarifying that while the legislature does not execute such actions, it has consistently promoted dialogue, humane engagement and strict adherence to due process in addressing urban renewal and development challenges across the state.
Ogundipe further explained that assurances previously given during engagements with stakeholders on the Makoko issue were not intended to suspend lawful executive actions. Rather, he said they reflected the Assembly’s commitment to intervention through legislative oversight, guided by the rule of law.
He reaffirmed the Assembly’s commitment to peaceful civic engagement, the protection of democratic rights and the promotion of orderly dialogue as the most effective means of resolving disputes. While acknowledging citizens’ right to protest, Ogundipe cautioned against intimidation, misinformation, verbal abuse and attempts to breach secured government facilities, warning that such actions cannot be justified under the guise of protest.
Following deliberations, the House resolved to urge the Lagos State Governor, through the Commissioner for Information, to provide clear and transparent public explanations on ongoing demolition exercises across the state.
Lawmakers also advised aggrieved residents to remain vigilant and avoid allowing mischief-makers to hijack their genuine concerns. They further called for the cooperation of all stakeholders to enable the Assembly to engage relevant parties, identify the root causes of the issues and develop lasting solutions.
In addition, the House appealed to civil society organisations and the media to exercise accuracy, restraint and responsibility in their reportage, while encouraging dialogue rather than confrontation.
Ogundipe concluded that these measures are vital to sustaining peace, protecting lives and property, and preserving democratic institutions in Lagos State.
