The Lagos State Government, through the Lagos State Urban Renewal Agency (LASURA), has commenced compensation payments to verified residents of the Oworonshoki community in Kosofe Local Government Area whose properties were demolished during recent clearance operations. The exercise began on October 23, 2025, at the palace of Oworonshoki’s traditional ruler, with community leaders, officials from LASURA, Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), and civil society organizations in attendance.
LASURA Director-General Oladimeji Animashaun confirmed that 80 beneficiaries have been identified and compensated between Thursday and Friday, with compensation amounts varying from ₦3 million to ₦5 million depending on the property type, while smaller payments were given for kiosks and shanties. Animashaun emphasized that Oworonshoki had been designated a regeneration zone for over five years, countering claims of lack of prior notice before demolition. The payments represent fulfillment of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s promise to address the aftermath of the clearance exercise compassionately and transparently.
The government’s long-term vision is to transform Oworonshoki into a well-planned modern community featuring improved housing, better drainage, potable water, and accessible roads. Lagos State House of Assembly member Hon. Okanlawon Sanni described the compensation as tangible proof of the administration’s commitment to “development with dignity.” He encouraged residents to remain calm and cooperative, expressing confidence that the urban renewal project will create safe, livable spaces suited to Lagos’s rapid growth.
Residents receiving compensation expressed relief and gratitude, acknowledging the government’s efforts as an important step toward balancing urban development and residents’ welfare. The compensation exercise marks a key phase in Lagos’s ongoing efforts to manage urban regeneration responsibly and ensure that affected citizens are treated with fairness and respect.