Nigeria: Protester shot, socialist arrested – Lagos police attack rally against demolition and eviction

Makoko residents at a previous demonstration outside the Lagos State House of Assembly

Hassan Taiwo Soweto, a leading member of the Democratic Socialist Movement (DSM) and spokesperson of #EndBadGovernance Movement Lagos, was arrested today at the Lagos State House of Assembly, probably with other protesters.  This was at a protest against the unjust demolition and forced eviction of Makoko, Oworonshoki, Owode Onirin and other poor people communities in Lagos.

The police unleashed teargas and live bullets to forcefully disperse the peaceful protesters. A protester was shot in the leg and a woman at present does not know the whereabouts of her baby as a result of the stampede.

The protesters were largely  the victims of demolition and members of the targeted communities.

We call for the immediate and unconditional release of Soweto and others.

The government should stop the unjust demolition and adequately compensate the victims of the forced evictions.

For background information:

MAKOKO WATERFRONT DEMOLITION – PROTESTERS DEMAND IMMEDIATE STOPPAGE AND ADEQUATE COMPENSATION – Democratic Socialist Movement

‘They told us to leave. They didn’t tell us where to go’: the demolitions destroying homes and lives in Lagos | Global development | The Guardian