Lagos begins compensation for Oworonshoki residents after demolition of illegal structures

The Lagos State Government has commenced compensation payments to residents of Oworonshoki in Kosofe Local Government Area whose structures were recently demolished under the state’s ongoing urban renewal and regeneration programme.

The exercise, which began on Thursday, October 23, 2025, marks a key step in Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to humane and inclusive urban development.

Speaking during the event held at the palace of the traditional ruler of Oworonshoki, the General Manager of the Lagos State Urban Renewal Agency (LASURA), TPL/ESV Olajide Animashaun, said the compensation process followed extensive verification, engagement, and enumeration carried out with community stakeholders.

According to him, the regeneration initiative was necessary to tackle the proliferation of unsafe and illegal structures, many of which were built on waterways and drainage channels, posing serious environmental and safety hazards.

“Oworonshoki is one of the communities under the state’s comprehensive urban renewal and regeneration plan,” Animashaun explained. “While many of the affected structures were unfit for habitation, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration promised to compensate verified residents — and today, that promise has been kept.”

He praised the governor’s leadership and dedication to the welfare of Lagosians, describing the initiative as proof of transparency and accountability in governance. Animashaun also commended the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development and the Permanent Secretary, Office of Urban Development, Arc. Gbolahan Oki, for their steadfast efforts in delivering the project.

The event was attended by members of the Oworonshoki traditional council, Community Development Associations (CDAs), the Community Development Council (CDC), civil society representatives, and the media.

LASURA disclosed that 79 verified beneficiaries will receive compensation in two phases, with the first batch receiving their cheques on Thursday and the second scheduled for Friday.

Several residents expressed gratitude to the Lagos State Government for honouring its word, describing the initiative as a rare display of accountability and compassion.

The Oworonshoki urban renewal project is part of the state’s wider effort to reclaim right-of-way for drainage systems, curb flooding, and enhance the safety and aesthetics of Lagos communities.