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Human rights activist and former presidential aspirant, Omoyele Sowore, has condemned the wave of demolitions in Lagos, accusing the state government and police of siding with real estate developers at the expense of the poor.
Speaking with Newscentral on Tuesday, Sowore claimed the government has abandoned its duty to provide affordable housing while punishing citizens who struggle to build their own shelters.
“You are not building houses for poor people. You don’t have mass housing like even Jakande used to have,” Sowore recalled. “And then suddenly, none of these things are provided. People then go and find their own places, build them, and you are demolishing them with relish. And you’re not demolishing, compensating, or providing an alternative. You are demolishing on behalf of real estate developers.” He said.
He also accused the Nigerian Police of serving private interests rather than protecting the people, leaving harsh criticisms for the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, who he said tried to restrict his movement.
“The Nigerian police, instead of protecting the public, are protecting the interests of a few,” he declared. “That is why the guy was so incoherent in declaring me wanted. In the first place, you have no right to declare anybody wanted without a court order.”
Recounting his recent arrest in Abuja for alleged public disturbance, the activist said judicial interference prolonged his detention at Kuje Prison, but added that despite the alleged intimidation, he met with affected residents and reiterated that no Nigerian official has the authority to ban protests or restrict movement.
