Amnesty International has condemned the demolition of shops and shelters at Alaba Rago Market in Ojo Local Government Area of Lagos State.
The group, in a statement on Tuesday, said Lagos State authorities carried out the demolition without adequate consultation and without providing alternative spaces for those affected.
“Amnesty International strongly condemns the brazen demolition of hundreds of shops and shelters at Alaba Rago Market in Ojo Local Council of Lagos State. The demolition was carried out unlawfully, without adequate consultation and without plans to offer alternative spaces for the victims,” it said.
The group said the demolition took place only a month into the six-month notice issued to traders.
“Carrying out the demolition only one month into the six-month notice issued to the traders shows deliberate contempt for the rule of law and due process,” the statement added.
Amnesty International said the demolition displaced hundreds of families and destroyed the livelihoods of traders who had depended on the market for decades.
“The demolition has made hundreds of families homeless and destroyed the livelihoods of thousands who have been trading in that space for decades. The violent way the demolition was carried out also left some people injured and entire businesses destroyed,” it said.
The group also alleged that security operatives tear-gassed traders who tried to salvage their goods.
“Those who tried to salvage what remained of their businesses were tear-gassed. Hundreds of traders and residents of Alaba Rago watched in horror as their homes and possessions were destroyed. For the residents of these deprived communities, many of whom rely on petty trading to make a living, Alaba Rago represents home, work, and survival,” Amnesty International said.
The organisation said the demolition violated international human rights standards.
“International law prohibits forced eviction and deliberate destruction of property. The traders at Alaba Rago have been subjected to inhuman and degrading treatment, for which suspected perpetrators must be brought to justice as a matter of urgency,” it added.
Amnesty International called on the Lagos State Government to set up a commission of inquiry and provide remedies for those affected.
“Lagos State authorities must immediately establish a commission of inquiry to investigate the shocking incident at Alaba Rago and provide adequate housing and compensation to all those who have lost their means of livelihood and homes,” the statement concluded.
