Property owners in the Oworonshoki community in the Kosofe Local Government Area of Lagos State, whose homes were demolished in recent clearance operations, are excited following the commencement of compensation payments by the Lagos State government.
Some beneficiaries who spoke to journalists extolled the state government and expressed gratitude to it for keeping its word.
One of the beneficiaries, Mrs Ajimoh Oyenuga, said: “The government gave us this money as compensation for the houses demolished on Precious Street, Oworonshoki. We are grateful because it shows that the government cares about our well-being.”
Another beneficiary, Mrs Olaide Fatima, added, “My house was close to the water and unsafe. The government promised to compensate us, and they have done it today. I appreciate this gesture — a promise made, a promise kept.”
Lagos State government, through the Lagos State Urban Renewal Agency (LASURA), disclosed at the weekend that it has commenced paying compensation to verified community residents.
The Director General of LASURA, Mr Oladimeji Animashaun, explained at a press conference in Lagos that 80 beneficiaries had been identified and compensated between Thursday and Friday.
He said, “We started the payment of compensation yesterday, and several residents have received their cheques.
“The total number of people being compensated is 80. This is proof that what Mr Governor promised has been fulfilled.”
Animashaun thanked Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his support, the Special Adviser to the Governor on e-GIS and Urban Development, Dr Abiodun Babatunde, and the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Urban Development, Mr Gbolahan Oki, for their coordination in ensuring that government policies were effectively implemented.
A member of the Lagos State House of Assembly, representing Kosofe Constituency I, Hon. Okanlawon Sanni, who was also present at the exercise, described the payment as “a practical demonstration of Sanwo-Olu’s compassion and commitment to urban renewal with a human face.”
