The Lagos State Attorney‑General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, has rejected allegations that the state government willfully disobeyed a subsisting court order in relation to the ongoing demolition of houses in Oworonshoki. He described the claims as “false and unfair.”
Addressing journalists, Pedro maintained that no agency of the Lagos State Government was served with any court order prior to the most recent phase of the demolition exercise. He clarified that the interim injunction being referenced was endorsed on Friday, 24 October 2025, the same day the demolition occurred, and had not been formally served on any government office.
According to him, government agencies cannot act on verbal notice of a court decision, as only formal service of court processes can trigger compliance. He stressed that as of the time of the demolition, neither his office nor any relevant agency had been served with the order.
Pedro further alleged that some litigants were engaging in abuse of court process to obstruct public interest, noting that the government had already shown leniency by suspending the demolition for nearly a month on the directive of Governor Babajide Sanwo‑Olu, to allow residents more time to relocate. He added that compensation had been paid to affected persons, even where many could not establish legal ownership of their properties.
The Attorney‑General confirmed sighting a copy of the interim injunction, which he said was obtained ex parte and merely restrained further demolition. He argued that this demonstrated that demolition had already commenced before the order was granted, and that the government was denied the right to be heard, contrary to the principle of fair hearing.
Pedro also emphasized that residents alleging unlawful demolition must prove title and compliance with building regulations before claiming damages. He noted that many of the demolished structures lacked building approvals and were therefore illegal under extant planning laws. Citing recent building collapses in Lagos, he argued that the government must act decisively against unsafe and unapproved structures to prevent future tragedies.
On the issue of land ownership, Pedro explained that portions of Oworonshoki fall within government‑acquired land, while other portions were excised to the Oba’s family. He stressed that only those with valid title documents and approved building plans could assert ownership rights.
Describing public criticism of the exercise as “unfair and sentimental,” Pedro insisted that the government acted within its statutory powers and did not flout any valid court order. He concluded that the narrative of disobedience was an attempt to blackmail the government for enforcing the law.
Meanwhile, residents of Oworonshoki continue to allege that the government defied a restraining order, while the state maintains that the operation targeted only illegal structures on government‑acquired land, with due process including compensation observed.
