Iwaya Demolition Sparks Outcry Amid Lagos Mainland Land Dispute

Property owners in Oko Agbon, Iwaya, allege that officials from state agencies demolished part of their building despite an ongoing ownership dispute. They say the exercise was carried out by LASBCA and the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development on June 18, even as their land claims awaited resolution. The Akali family claims the Rufai family has long tried to reclaim the land since the death of their father. They say anti-land-grabbing agents dismissed Rufai’s counter-claim after reviewing title documents. Yet a 24-hour removal notice arrived on June 17, followed by the demolition the next day. Witnesses describe armed policemen forcing entry and demolishing structures in under 30 minutes. Among the victims is the Celestial Church of Christ, whose pastor says the disruption has halted worship and displaced members. The Rufai family’s solicitor insists the land was never sold to the Akalis and that the late patriarch was a tenant. A ministry spokesperson denies any direct involvement, suggesting LASBCA or another department carried out the demolition.

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