Demolition Along Lagos Coastal Highway Leaves Residents Displaced as Authorities Move to Secure Corridor
A fresh demolition exercise along the Maruwa axis on the Lekki–Epe corridor of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway has left several informal settlers displaced, as construction authorities intensify efforts to clear and secure the project route.
The operation, carried out by the contractor handling the project under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Works, followed concerns over the rapid spread of makeshift settlements within the fenced highway corridor. The area, according to earlier findings, had become home to clusters of temporary shelters made from wood, tarpaulin, and other salvaged materials.
Residents said they were caught off guard by the latest enforcement, describing it as more coordinated and extensive than previous clearance exercises.
One occupant, who said he had lived in the area for about seven years, lamented the development, noting that repeated demolitions had made life increasingly uncertain for settlers.
“They are quite serious this time. I don’t think we will be able to return,” he said, adding that many residents depended on daily labour jobs and had nowhere else to go.
He also claimed that while earlier occupants were often able to return after previous clearances, newcomers sometimes paid informal fees to settle within the area.
Another displaced resident appealed for assistance, saying he had a family in Ondo State and needed support to either secure accommodation or return home.
During the operation, tension reportedly escalated when an operative involved in the demolition alleged he was attacked by one of the occupants. The worker said he sustained injuries after being struck with a machete while attempting to move machinery into the area, adding that a vehicle was also damaged during the confrontation.
The Federal Ministry of Works, through its officials, said the exercise is part of ongoing efforts to prevent re-encroachment on the highway corridor. Authorities explained that despite previous clearance operations, settlers often returned shortly after.
A senior official said the ministry is now adopting a stricter approach, including fencing and restricting access to the cleared areas to prevent further occupation. Security personnel have also been deployed to enforce the restriction.
He added that discussions were ongoing with relevant state authorities to explore possible temporary relocation options for affected persons, many of whom have complained about the lack of alternative shelter.
The Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway project, a major federal infrastructure initiative, has continued to face challenges linked to encroachment and informal settlements along its route, prompting repeated clearance operations in affected areas.
