Gospel artist Testimony Jaga has appealed to the Lagos State Government to urgently intervene in what he describes as a “humanitarian disaster” following the demolition of homes and shops along AIT Road, Kola, and the Powerline axis by officials of the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA).
According to the singer, the government’s operation carried out under the justification that the structures fell within high-tension powerline extensions has plunged countless families into sorrow, homelessness, and in some cases, physical harm. Jaga said many victims are elderly people and widows who have nowhere else to go.
He alleged that despite the government’s earlier claim that the cleared land would be used for the construction of a BRT garage and a Mechanic Village, the same land is now reportedly being allocated to individuals while construction of a mall and rows of shops has begun. He expressed concern that the government’s shifting plans are raising suspicion among affected residents who originally believed the demolitions were for public infrastructure.
One of the victims, Mrs. Adebimpe Oduro, a widow, said her only source of livelihood was wiped out in minutes. She recounted watching helplessly as her shop, where she sold goods to sustain her children, was bulldozed. She said some of her merchandise was destroyed before she could salvage anything, adding that she now has no income and no shelter.
Another resident, Mrs. Esther Oalogun, fought back tears as she described the demolition as “the beginning of a slow death.” She said she has been struggling to find food since losing her business.
Testimony Jaga urged the government to return to the original development plan of a BRT depot and a Mechanic Village, arguing that these projects would create jobs and improve the economy of the community rather than displacing vulnerable people.
He also appealed for immediate compensation for the victims, especially the widows and elderly residents who are currently sleeping in the open with no access to food, water, or basic shelter.
“This situation is bigger than politics,” he said. “It is about real human lives, real suffering, and real families who have been pushed into despair. These people deserve justice and immediate relief.”
Leave a comment