Lagos begins second round of compensation for Oworonshoki demolition victims

By Sodiq Adelakun

The Lagos State Government has commenced a second round of compensation for residents displaced by the ongoing Oworonshoki urban renewal project in Kosofe Local Government Area.

The exercise, supervised by the Lagos State Urban Renewal Agency (LASURA), took place at Oloworo Palace, where affected property owners gathered to verify their documents and receive payment.

Addressing pressmen on Wednesday, Town Planner Oladimeji Animashaun, the General Manager of LASURA, said the new phase was designed for residents who were unable to participate in the first enumeration exercise.

“About a week ago, we paid those whose houses were demolished. Some people missed out and asked for another chance. This second round is to make sure no one is left behind,” Animashaun explained.

He added that the process was initiated under the directive of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, to ensure all legitimate claimants are duly compensated.

According to Animashaun, many residents were initially sceptical of the government’s promise to pay, but confidence grew after the first payments were confirmed.

“Some thought it wasn’t real and planned to protest. But once they saw payments being made, they believed and came forward for verification,” he said.

Community leaders, traditional chiefs, members of Community Development Associations (CDAs) and Committees (CDCs), civil society representatives, and journalists were present to observe the process.

Animashaun assured that the Lagos government remains committed to fairness and transparency in the exercise, noting that all legitimate claims would be processed and paid without delay.