Mass Evictions in Lagos Displace Thousands, Including Newborn Twins Now Living in a Canoe
A sweeping eviction operation in Lagos, Nigeria, has resulted in the displacement of thousands of residents, with one family, including newborn twins, now forced to live in a canoe after their home was demolished. The incident highlights a severe housing crisis in the densely populated city, raising urgent concerns about human rights and social stability.
Demolition Leaves Families Without Shelter
On Friday, January 30, 2026, authorities in Lagos carried out mass evictions in the Makoko area, a waterfront community known for its stilt houses. Among those affected was Josianua Agbokpasu, a mother who posed with her twins at the site of their demolished home, captured in a poignant photograph by Sunday Alamba. The evictions have left many families without shelter, with reports indicating that thousands have been rendered homeless overnight.
Humanitarian Crisis Unfolds in Lagos
The displacement has sparked a humanitarian crisis, as residents scramble to find temporary housing or resort to makeshift shelters like canoes. Lagos, one of Africa's largest cities, has long struggled with overcrowding and inadequate housing, but this recent eviction drive has exacerbated the situation. Critics argue that such actions violate the rights of vulnerable populations and call for more compassionate urban planning.
Broader Implications for Urban Development
This event underscores the challenges of rapid urbanization in Nigeria, where economic growth often clashes with the needs of low-income communities. The evictions in Makoko reflect a broader trend of forced displacements in developing cities, prompting discussions on sustainable development and the protection of residents' livelihoods. As families like Agbokpasu's face uncertain futures, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of urban expansion.
