Gospel singer Testimony Jaga has appealed to the Lagos State Government to intervene urgently after the demolition of homes and shops along AIT Road, Kola, and the Powerline axis, which he describes as a humanitarian disaster.
According to Jaga, officials of the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) carried out the demolitions under the justification that the affected structures were located within high-tension powerline extensions. The action has left countless families homeless, with some experiencing physical harm. Many of the victims are elderly residents and widows with nowhere to turn.
The singer alleged that while the government initially claimed the cleared land would be used for a BRT garage and Mechanic Village, construction on the site has now reportedly shifted to private interests, including a mall and rows of shops. This sudden change, he said, has fueled suspicion among residents who believed the demolitions were for public infrastructure.
Jaga further revealed that landlords in the area allegedly contributed ₦25 million through community channels to the Ministry of Environment, hoping their buildings and businesses would be spared. Despite these payments, the demolitions proceeded, leaving residents feeling deceived and abandoned.
“The demolitions, which lasted several days, shattered the lives of hundreds,” Jaga said. “Many are now sleeping outside, exposed to rain, mosquitoes, hunger, and the cold Lagos night.”
He urged the government to return to the original development plan of a BRT depot and Mechanic Village, highlighting that such projects would create jobs and boost the local economy rather than displacing vulnerable citizens.
“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,” Jaga emphasized.
The singer’s comments come as the displaced residents seek clarity on the future use of their former homes and businesses, demanding swift government action to address their plight.
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