Human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana, has described the demolition or displacement of residents from waterfront communities as illegal under Nigerian law.
Falana made the remarks on Sunday during an interview on Arise Television while responding to questions on recent demolitions and protests in Lagos State.
He said residents are constitutionally entitled to the right to housing and human dignity, stressing that governments must engage affected communities and provide alternative accommodation before carrying out any demolition exercise.
Citing a Supreme Court judgment delivered about two years ago, Falana noted that state governments have no authority over inland waterways, arguing that this further renders demolitions in waterfront areas unlawful.
The senior lawyer also condemned the use of tear gas on peaceful protesters, saying there was no legal basis for such actions. He described night-time demolitions accompanied by force as inhumane and contrary to the law.
According to him, Section 17 of the Constitution requires all actions of government to be humane, adding that residents should not be subjected to sudden displacement, intimidation, or destruction of property.
Falana said he is not opposed to development but maintained that due process must be followed. “If the government wants to demolish, no problem,” he said, “but you must discuss with the people and relocate them to other places.”