- … describes act as inhumane
The traditional ruler of Otumara community, Ojo-Oniyun, Apapa Road, and its environs, High Chief Kehinde Kalejaiye, has appealed to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the State Commissioner of Police, and the Lagos State House of Assembly to investigate the recent demolition in the Costain area of Lagos Mainland and provide relief for affected traders.
The appeal followed an operation on Thursday, October 23, 2025, during which shops, stalls, and a mosque were pulled down by officials of the Lagos State Task Force, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), and the Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI). Eyewitnesses said the exercise, which began in the early afternoon, disrupted trading activities and displaced many business owners.
In a petition submitted to relevant state ministries and agencies through his solicitors, Kayode Ajala & Partners, Chief Kalejaiye urged the government to look into the incident and ensure the return of goods and cash allegedly seized during the exercise within 14 days. He also stated that the affected land, measuring about 1,040 square meters, was under a temporary occupation license issued by the Federal Ministry of Power, Works, and Housing in 2015.
Several victims recounted their experiences.
A 79-year-old welder, Pa John Adeyi, said his tools and iron gates were taken before his shop was demolished.
“They came without notice, teargassed everywhere, and chased everyone away. I lost all my tools and cash. Two women fainted from the teargas and were rushed to the hospital,” he said.
Another trader, Mr. Alfred Wisdom, who produces snacks, said his shop and goods worth over ₦2 million were destroyed.
“They said my business was illegal. I was on my way to deliver goods when the Task Force arrived. Before I got back, everything was gone,” he lamented.
The Imam of the demolished Markaz-ul-Mahani Mosque, Ustadz Abdulsallam Olawale, also confirmed that the mosque was affected.
“They said they were clearing buses but ended up destroying traders’ and worshippers’ properties,” he said.
Many of the victims were reportedly among those displaced during an earlier demolition in the Otumara community six months ago.
As of the time of this report, the Lagos State Government has yet to issue an official statement explaining the reason for the demolition or any plans for compensation.