A 79-year-old resident of Oworonshoki, Lagos, Mr. Ebun Ikuejagbaiye, collapsed inside Ikoyi Custodial Centre on Tuesday after a magistrate denied bail for him and 12 other protesters detained during a demonstration against ongoing demolitions in the community.

Mr. Ikuejagbaiye and the other detainees have been held since November 3, 2025, following what residents describe as a lawful protest against forceful demolitions by Lagos State government agents.

According to sources, the collapse occurred shortly after Magistrate Ejiro Kubenje of the Lagos State Magistrate Court, Sabo–Yaba, refused to approve their bail bond. The magistrate reportedly cited the tax records of the sureties as “too low” as the reason for rejection.

Community members allege the refusal coincided with news that demolition activities had resumed in Oworonshoki, fueling concerns that judicial decisions may be influenced by efforts to suppress resistance. A community leader suggested the court was warned that releasing the protesters could encourage further pushback against the demolitions.

Mr. Ikuejagbaiye is the second detainee to collapse in custody; 67-year-old Mr. Odewale Samuel similarly fainted last week, despite being granted bail which has not been activated due to the magistrate’s refusal to endorse the bond.

The Oworonshoki Community and the Take It Back Movement (TIB) condemned the development, describing it as part of a growing pattern of state intimidation against residents defending their homes. In a joint statement, they demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all 13 detainees, and called for urgent medical attention and independent evaluation for Mr. Ikuejagbaiye.

The statement read in part:

“Repression cannot silence a united community fighting for justice, dignity, and survival. We call on human rights organisations, labour unions, civil society groups, and international observers to stand with the people of Oworonshoki at this critical moment.”

Despite the crackdown, community leaders insist residents remain united and resolute, pledging to continue defending their homes against illegal demolitions.