The Lagos State House of Assembly has thrown its weight behind the state government’s ongoing demolition of illegal structures and shanties located along shorelines and beneath high-tension power lines across the state, despite protests by affected residents.

The position of the lawmakers was disclosed on Tuesday by the Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Security and Strategy, Mr Stephen Ogundipe.

The demolition exercise, being carried out by the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, has mainly affected communities in Oworonsoki and Makoko. Last Thursday, residents of Makoko staged a protest at the Assembly complex, calling on Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to halt further demolitions.

Addressing the concerns, Ogundipe, who represents Oshodi-Isolo Constituency I, described the exercise as a necessary measure to safeguard lives and property across the state.

“It is quite troubling that makeshift structures, shanties and illegal sheds have taken over our shorelines,” he said.

According to him, these areas have become havens for miscreants, street urchins, kidnappers, touts and illegal traders who often vandalise public utilities and pose security threats to law-abiding residents.

While acknowledging that the demolition may cause hardship for those affected, Ogundipe maintained that the action was essential to protect the broader public interest and uphold the rule of law.

“The government’s intervention, though painful, is aimed at preventing avoidable disasters and ensuring sustainable urban development,” he said.

He added that the leadership of the House views the exercise as responsible and forward-looking, urging residents to remain calm and cooperate with government officials.

Ogundipe also advised citizens to strictly adhere to building regulations and planning approvals to avoid similar situations in the future, stressing that collective responsibility is crucial to preventing urban disasters.

However, he assured that the Assembly remains committed to balancing enforcement with compassion, noting that efforts would be made to ensure affected residents are not left without support during the transition.