The Lagos State Government has drawn sharp criticism after its Environmental Taskforce conducted a midnight raid, leading to the arrest and planned court charges of 74 homeless individuals. The operation, which occurred around 1 a.m. on Tuesday, targeted areas on Lagos Island and the Lekki axis, including Falomo Bridge, Eko Hotel Roundabout, Oniru Beach, the Nigerian Law School area, Lekki Phases 1 and 2, and the 1004 Estate area. Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, announced the arrests via his X account, stating that 72 males and 2 females were apprehended and would face legal action.
This move has ignited widespread condemnation, particularly on social media, where users have questioned the ethics of criminalizing homelessness against the backdrop of Nigeria's severe housing deficit and economic hardship. Many argue that instead of arrests, the government should focus on providing shelter and addressing the underlying issues contributing to homelessness. While some defend the operation by citing concerns about potential criminal activity, others fear it will only exacerbate the vulnerability of those affected.
The arrests occur within a context of a significant housing crisis in Nigeria, with an estimated deficit of over 28 million units nationwide. Lagos, as the country's most populous city, bears a substantial part of this burden, characterized by escalating rents and limited affordable housing options. This situation is further compounded by widespread poverty, with over 63% of Nigerians classified as multi-dimensionally poor, struggling with access to basic necessities. Stakeholders have long maintained that criminalizing homelessness without tackling the fundamental issues of poverty, unemployment, and housing shortages is a misguided approach. The recent actions by the Lagos State Government have amplified questions regarding the extent of protection offered to its most vulnerable residents and whether prosecuting the homeless truly serves justice.
Page Manager
