The Lagos State House of Assembly, together with representatives from waterfront communities affected by recent demolitions, has expressed support for the state government’s proposed Water City development in the impacted areas.
This stance was adopted as part of a five-point resolution reached during a stakeholders’ meeting on Tuesday evening at the Assembly complex in Alausa, Ikeja.
The discussions brought together leaders from the Makoko, Sogunro, and Oko Agbon waterfront communities.
According to Noheem Adams, Chairman of the Adhoc Committee on Rules and Business, the proposed project is intended to benefit the affected residents.
Adams, who is also the House Majority Leader, explained that the state government would constitute a 10-man committee to conduct a self-enumeration of affected buildings.
He added that the committee is expected to complete the enumeration exercise and submit its report within two weeks to the Adhoc Committee on Rules and Business.
Calling for transparency in the process, Adams noted that data provided by the community would be cross-checked with government records. He also directed Makoko stakeholders to submit the list of the proposed 10-man committee to the House once it is constituted.
Speaking to journalists, the Baale of Sogunro Community, Chief Abraham Mesu, commended the intervention of the Lagos State House of Assembly. He described the proposed Water City project as a landmark initiative capable of improving living standards and ensuring that residents remain the primary beneficiaries.
At the same time, Mesu expressed concern over the impact of the demolitions but affirmed the community’s willingness to collaborate with the state government.
Also speaking, the Baale of Makoko Waterfront, Chief Emmanuel Shemade, said community leaders had resolved not to rebuild demolished structures until further notice.
He added that he was satisfied with the agreement reached at the meeting on the regeneration of Makoko communities without displacing residents.