Testimony Jaga seeks justice for displaced residence

Gospel artist, Testimony Jaga has appealed to the Lagos State Government to urgently intervene in what he describes as a “humanitarian disaster” following the demolition of homes and shops along AIT Road, Kola, and the Powerline axis by officials of the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA).

According to the singer, the government’s operation carried out under the justification that the structures fell within high-tension powerline extensions has plunged countless families into sorrow, homelessness, and in some cases, physical harm. Jaga said many victims are elderly people and widows who have nowhere else to go.

He alleged that despite the government’s earlier claim that the cleared land would be used for the construction of a BRT garage and a Mechanic Village, the same land is now reportedly being allocated to individuals while construction of a mall and rows of shops has begun.

He expressed concern that the government’s shifting plans are raising suspicion among affected residents who originally believed the demolitions were for public infrastructure.

The gospel artist further revealed that landlords in the community allegedly contributed a total of ₦25 million, which they reportedly paid through community channels to the Ministry of Environment, hoping their buildings and businesses would be spared. Instead, he said, the demolitions still went ahead, leaving many feeling cheated and abandoned.

The demolitions, which lasted for days, shattered the lives of hundreds. Many now sleep outside, exposed to rain, mosquitoes, hunger, and the cold Lagos night.

Testimony Jaga urged the government to return to the original development plan of a BRT depot and a Mechanic Village, arguing that these projects would create jobs and improve the economy of the community rather than displacing vulnerable people.

‘This situation is bigger than politics. It is about real human lives, real suffering and real families who have been pushed into despair. These people deserve justice and immediate relief,” said Jaga.