Two children and an adult narrowly escaped death after tear gas allegedly fired by police during a demolition exercise in the Makoko waterfront area of Lagos left them struggling to breathe.
Residents said the incident occurred as government-backed demolition teams moved to pull down structures near a power line. Among the victims were a baby less than one year old and a toddler who reportedly battled for their lives after inhaling the gas. A well-known community member also collapsed and was rushed to hospital.
The demolition has displaced over 10,000 residents, many of whom are now homeless and sleeping in boats. Families say their homes and sources of livelihood were destroyed during the festive period, worsening their hardship.
Community leaders explained that while residents initially agreed to remove buildings within 30 metres of the power line, authorities later extended the demolition beyond the agreed limit. The Lagos State government insists that a 100-metre clearance is necessary for public safety.
Residents are now appealing for the evacuation distance to be reduced to 50 metres, warning that anything more will leave thousands without shelter or income.
Human rights activists and civil society groups have condemned the demolition, saying it has deepened poverty in Makoko and disrupted children’s education, as many can no longer attend school due to displacement.
Despite the backlash, the Lagos State government maintains that the exercise was carried out in the interest of safety.
