The Lagos State House of Assembly has urged the state government to intensify public enlightenment on ongoing demolitions to curb misinformation and improve public understanding.
The resolution followed a motion under Matters of Urgent Public Importance by Stephen Ogundipe during Thursday’s plenary.
Ogundipe, representing Oshodi-Isolo Constituency I, warned of misleading publications surrounding recent developments, particularly in the Makoko area.
He said: “Many reports contain inaccuracies, distortions and unverified allegations capable of misleading the public and heightening unnecessary tension.”
Contributing, Aro Moshood, Ikorodu Constituency II, said residents often ignore the rationale behind government policies when reacting to development projects.
Aro added that urban renewal initiatives should have begun earlier, noting that many occupants of demolished areas were “living there illegally”.
He commended the Commissioner of Police for intervening promptly to quell protests and prevent escalation.
Kehinde Joseph, representing Alimosho I, urged the government to ensure adequate compensation for genuinely affected persons.
Joseph noted that “some protesters are now receiving support from human rights groups”, backing calls for a special committee.
Abiodun Tobun said protesters nearly overran the Assembly complex, describing the situation as “almost violent”.
Tobun praised the Commissioner of Police for curbing excesses and averting a breakdown of law and order.
The Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, urged affected residents to remain calm, assuring them that a committee had been set up to address concerns.
He thanked protesters for engaging the assembly but warned against “troublemakers seeking to exploit the situation”.
Obasa said some individuals infiltrated the protest with intentions to cause mayhem, urging vigilance among genuine protesters.
The House resolved to pursue measures aimed at de-escalating tensions, promoting understanding and engaging stakeholders to achieve lasting solutions.
