Focus on Africa Why is Nigeria demolishing Lagos lagoon slum?
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Feb 5, 2026 Chiamaka Dike, field reporter who covered Makoko demolitions, describes floating homes, displacement and disputed safety claims. Umaru Fofana, journalist covering Sierra Leone's war legacy, explains the new national remembrance and the president's apology. They discuss large-scale demolitions, disrupted livelihoods, delayed accountability and the politics of memory.
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Clearance Exceeded Initial Agreement
- Residents say demolitions escalated beyond initial agreements which expected a 30-meter clearance.
- Chiamaka Dike reports the government cleared over 250 meters, showing a disconnect between officials and residents.
Government Frames Demolition As Safety And Legal Issue
- The Lagos government argues people under power lines lack legal land rights and pose safety risks.
- Officials framed earlier discussions as sympathetic rather than granting legal claims, per Chiamaka's interview with the commissioner.
Livelihoods And Limited Immediate Support
- Makoko's economy depends on fishing, fish smoking and canoe transport, so removing waterfront structures instantly cuts livelihoods.
- Despite promises of grants and a $2m resettlement plan, organized relief was not evident on the ground.