Demolitions: Lagos Lawmakers caution protesters, seek better public enlightenment
The Lagos State House of Assembly has urged protesters to express their grievances peacefully, warning against the activities of violent elements and fifth columnists who may attempt to hijack legitimate protests to foment unrest.
The House also called on the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr Gbenga Omotosho, to intensify public enlightenment on ongoing demolition exercises across the state in order to curb misinformation and improve public understanding of government actions.
The resolutions followed a motion raised under Matters of Urgent Public Importance by the member representing Oshodi-Isolo Constituency I, Hon Stephen Ogundipe Olukayode, during Thursday’s plenary session.
Presenting the motion, Hon Ogundipe expressed concern over what he described as a surge in misleading publications and commentaries, particularly in relation to developments in the Makoko area.
He noted that such reports were often riddled with inaccuracies, distortions and unverified allegations capable of misleading the public and heightening tensions against the Lagos State Government.
The lawmaker stressed the need to restate the legislative position of the House, clarifying that matters relating to infrastructure safety, power-line setbacks, environmental control and demolitions fall strictly within the purview of the executive arm of government and its relevant regulatory agencies.
Ogundipe reaffirmed the Assembly’s commitment to peaceful civic engagement, the protection of democratic rights and orderly dialogue as the only sustainable means of resolving disputes.
Following deliberations, the House urged the Lagos State Governor, through the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, to ensure adequate public sensitisation on demolition activities across the state in the interest of clarity and transparency.
The House also appealed to aggrieved members of the public to remain vigilant and avoid allowing mischief-makers to exploit their genuine concerns.
