Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has expressed concern over the demolitions occurring in Jakande, Lagos, indicating that the government's land use policies prioritize private developers and exclude marginalized groups, thereby intensifying the issue of homelessness in the city.
In a recent interview with ARISE NEWS, Rhodes-Vivour condemned the government's exploitation of Section 28 of the Land Use Act, which is meant for public interest land acquisition but is instead benefitting private developers.
Though Lagos State has announced plans for compensation, he claims that the proposed amounts are insufficient and fail to provide viable alternatives for housing.
He stated, “Lands are being appropriated for individual private developers, who will only construct expensive housing, contributing to a worsening cost of living crisis. As a result, many young individuals are left homeless, wandering the streets without shelter, as development continues to marginalize the impoverished.”
Reflecting on his visit to Jakande Estate during the demolition process, he recounted, “I went to Ilesan myself. The supposed task force from Lagos State threatened to assault me and began attacking those nearby.”
He continued, “While I was there, I witnessed people fleeing from the task force, so I approached them. I said, ‘If you want to beat me, go ahead.’ Then they started attacking others near me. When I refused to back down, they used tear gas against me. This violence has become a hallmark of this administration.”
He further criticized the government for failing to abide by court orders, emphasizing that the compensation of 11.2 million naira is not enough for securing a two or three-bedroom apartment in that region today. He noted how the government has evolved into an institution focused on land acquisition for private gain.
He advocated for a more inclusive management of Lagos's expansion, questioning the empathy and planning of the government. “If they were considerate and had a strategy for inclusive development, with designated areas for different types of housing, it could allow for growth without adversely impacting the underprivileged,” he suggested.
Rhodes-Vivour highlighted that over 80% of Lagos's population lives in poverty. “To afford rent of 11.2 million, one would need a monthly income of nearly two million naira. How many residents can realistically earn that much?” he asked.
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