Police fired teargas on Wednesday to disperse protesters demanding compensation following mass evictions carried out by the Lagos State government. The protesters, made up of displaced residents from waterfront and informal settlements, gathered near a major road in Lagos to accuse authorities of demolishing their homes without adequate notice, compensation or resettlement plans. Police moved in after the crowd blocked parts of the road, firing teargas canisters that sent protesters running, and scrambling for safety. Lagos State authorities have said the demolitions are part of efforts to enforce urban planning laws, reduce environmental risks and prevent flooding in high-risk areas. Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial hub, faces intense pressure from rapid population growth, with millions living in informal settlements vulnerable to flooding and redevelopment drives.

Source: Ethiopian News January 29, 2026 06:18 UTC