The Centre for Human and Socio-Economic Rights (CHSR) has condemned the demolition of over 500 shops at Owode Motor Spare Part Market, Owode Onirin, allegedly carried out by the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA).
The demolition, which occurred in the early hours of Thursday, March 6, 2025, was reportedly part of an enforcement exercise targeting the neighboring Agbajoowo Market. However, traders claim LASBCA wrongfully extended the operation into Owode Market, resulting in the destruction of hundreds of shops.
In a petition to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, CHSR President, Comrade Alex Omotehinse, described the demolition as “a brazen act of land grabbing” that threatens the livelihoods of thousands of traders and the economic stability of Lagos State. The organization urged the governor to intervene urgently to prevent further hardship for affected traders.
Traders also accused security operatives of targeting their association chairman, Comrade Abiodun Hammed, who was arrested and detained at FCID Alagbon before being granted bail. They allege that police imposed strict conditions barring him from the market and restricting his involvement in market affairs.
With losses amounting to billions of naira, CHSR is demanding immediate government action to address the alleged injustice and ensure the protection of traders under the law. The organization emphasized its commitment to defending fundamental human and socioeconomic rights, calling for fairness, justice, and adherence to the rule of law.
