NHRC Condemns Demolitions in Lagos, Market Closure in Anambra
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has raised serious concerns over house demolitions and evictions in Lagos and Anambra States.
Executive Secretary of the Commission, Dr Tony Ojukwu SAN, said the actions carry significant human rights implications. He expressed particular concern over the ongoing demolitions of waterfront and informal settlements in Makoko, Lagos, which have displaced thousands of residents.
The position of Dr Ojukwu was outlined in a statement issued on Wednesday by Fatimah Agwai Mohammed, Director of Corporate Affairs and External Linkages.
He lamented that the demolitions, often carried out without adequate notice, compensation, or resettlement plans, have left families homeless and destroyed livelihoods.
“These actions contravene constitutional guarantees of dignity, housing, and family life, as well as international human rights standards to which Nigeria is committed,” Dr Ojukwu stated.
He further emphasised the disregard for court rulings prohibiting forced evictions: “The courts have issued pronouncements prohibiting forced evictions, yet these rulings are disregarded. This undermines the rule of law and erodes public confidence in governance.”
Dr Ojukwu insisted that development projects must never come at the expense of fundamental rights. He called for an immediate halt to demolitions to allow meaningful consultation with affected communities and the provision of adequate resettlement and compensation.
While commending the Anambra State Government for taking decisive steps to curb the sit-at-home directive, Dr Ojukwu expressed concern over the closure of Onitsha Main Market, which followed traders’ compliance with the outlawed directive.
“While both the government and the Commission see the sit-at-home directive as illegal and an economic sabotage, collective punishment of traders through market closures raises serious questions about the right to livelihood, freedom of movement, and due process,” he said.
The Human Rights Commission highlighted the economic toll of the sit-at-home, with the Anambra State Government estimating losses of ₦8 billion every Monday. Traders have also cited fear of violence as the reason for compliance, underscoring the need for stronger protection and confidence-building measures.
Dr Ojukwu urged the Anambra State Government to prioritise dialogue, ensure adequate security for traders, and adopt measures that safeguard both economic activity and human rights.
He reiterated that development, law enforcement, and economic governance must respect fundamental rights.
“Forced evictions and collective sanctions erode trust in government, deepen social vulnerabilities, and risk fueling instability,” he emphasised.
Dr Ojukwu warned that Nigeria’s progress must be anchored in justice, fairness, and respect for citizens’ dignity. He added that the Commission will continue to monitor the situation closely and engage relevant authorities to ensure that the country’s development and governance remain consistent with its human rights obligations.
