While authorities have justified recent demolitions on safety and environmental grounds, citing homes located near high-tension power lines, these operations have extended far beyond those areas, leaving thousands without shelter.

At the same time, these communities are located along the Lagos lagoon, an area increasingly targeted for high-value urban and luxury development. As highlighted in the collective letter, these evictions are being carried out with the backing of powerful economic interests, resulting in the systematic displacement of low-income communities under the guise of “development.”

Despite the scale of destruction, residents have received no adequate notice, no meaningful consultation, and no plans for resettlement or compensation.

Forced evictions in Lagos are not new. They are part of a long-standing pattern of dispossession affecting informal waterfront communities. Since 1973, at least 91 eviction operations have been recorded, with Makoko itself experiencing large-scale demolitions in 2012 and 2017.

Communities resisting, demanding justice

Makoko is a historic fishing community, home to generations of families whose livelihoods depend on the lagoon. What is being destroyed is not only housing, but entire systems of life, care, and community.

In response, Makoko’s residents—together with Spaces for Change, a member of ESCR-Net—are leading a collective call for justice.

Their demands are clear:

• An immediate halt to all forced evictions and demolitions
• Accountability for the violence and human rights violations
• Housing solutions that respect human rights and ensure meaningful community participation

Standing in solidarity

ESCR-Net is proud to support this initiative led by Spaces for Change and the communities of Makoko.

These evictions violate domestic law and international human rights obligations, including the right to adequate housing, the right to livelihood, and the right to live with dignity.

A megacity cannot be built through the displacement and impoverishment of its most vulnerable residents.

We cannot remain silent.

Act now: Final days to sign

We invite ESCR-Net members, partners, and allies to stand in solidarity with Makoko.

Add your organization’s name to this collective letter calling for an end to forced evictions and for rights-based housing solutions.

By signing, you join a growing global call to defend the right to remain, to live, and to build just futures.

Read the full letter in: English | Español |Français| العربية |

Deadline: Monday, April 13, 2026 (end of day)