Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, former Lagos governorship candidate and chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has accused the Lagos State Government of violence, lawlessness, and land-grabbing following the demolition of buildings at Ilasan, Jakande Estate, despite a court injunction that had been issued against such actions.

Rhodes-Vivour, who personally visited the area during the demolition exercise, claims that members of the Lagos State Task Force violently assaulted residents, resulting in one man being left in a coma and others being severely beaten. In a statement on Arise Television and in his earlier post on X (formerly Twitter), Rhodes-Vivour described the scene he witnessed as a reflection of the government’s “true character” and disregard for the rule of law.

“I personally visited Ilasan, Jakande Estate, to witness the demolition process, despite the court injunction,” said Rhodes-Vivour. “Before my eyes, a man was beaten into a coma while others were flogged mercilessly by the Lagos Task Force.”

A Violent Encounter

The ADC chieftain recounted how, upon confronting the Task Force operatives and challenging them to direct their aggression toward him, the officials responded by escalating violence. “When I went to meet them and said, ‘You want to beat me? Do it,’ they started beating people around me,” he recalled. “Before I knew it, they fired tear gas at me.”

Rhodes-Vivour condemned the violent response, calling it indicative of a “lawless government” that disregards court orders. He pointed out that the government’s violent tactics had become a hallmark of its approach, especially in dealing with residents in vulnerable communities.

Inadequate Compensation

The former governorship candidate also criticized the N11.2 million compensation reportedly offered to displaced residents, describing it as grossly inadequate. “N11.2 million cannot afford a two- or three-bedroom apartment in this area today,” he said, emphasizing the disparity between the compensation and the rising land value in Lagos.

Land Grabbing and Displacement

Accusing the Lagos government of abusing the Land Use Act, Rhodes-Vivour argued that lands intended for public interest were being handed over to private developers for luxury housing projects. “Section 28 of the Land Use Act allows government to take land for overriding public interest. But these lands are being taken for private individuals who will only build expensive housing, worsening the cost-of-living crisis,” he explained.

He warned that such policies would worsen homelessness and poverty in Lagos, a state where over 80% of residents live in poverty. Rhodes-Vivour expressed concern that the government’s actions would lead to widespread displacement, particularly among long-time residents who had lived in the Jakande Estate for over 20 years.

Inclusive Development

While Rhodes-Vivour stressed that he was not opposed to development, he insisted that it should be inclusive and humane. “Cities must grow and develop, but not at the detriment of the poor,” he stated. “If there was a clear plan for inclusive development, where part of the land is allocated for high-density housing and another for luxury development, I would not be speaking.”

Rhodes-Vivour concluded by condemning the violent, land-grabbing policies of the Lagos government, calling for an end to what he described as a government that “inflicts violence on its people.”