By Anthony Ochela, Abuja
National Human Rights Commission, NHRC, has expressed grave concern over the recent demolitions and evictions in Lagos and Anambra States.
Executive Secretary of the commission, Dr Tony Ojukwu (SAN), who said these actions raise serious human rights implications, noted with surprise, the ongoing demolition of waterfront and informal settlements in Makoko, Lagos, which displaced thousands of residents.
A statement issued by the Director of Corporate Affairs and External Linkages, Fatimah Mohammed, said Ojukwu lamented that these demolitions which were carried out without adequate notice, compensation or resettlement plans, have left families homeless and livelihoods destroyed.
According to the statement, Ojukwu emphasized that such actions contravene the constitutional guarantee of dignity, housing and family life, as well as international human rights standards to which Nigeria is committed to.
“The courts have issued pronouncements prohibiting forced evictions, yet these rulings are disregarded. This undermines the rule of law and erodes public confidence in governance,” he stated.
NHRC insisted that development projects must never come at the expense of fundamental rights and called for the immediate halt of demolitions to pave the way for meaningful consultation with the affected communities, and the provision of adequate resettlement and compensation.
While commending the Anambra State government for the decisive steps to stop the sit-at-home anomaly, Ojukwu said the commission is troubled by the closure of Onitsha Main Market, following traders compliance with the outlawed sit-at-home directive.
He said while government and the commission see the sit-at-home directive as illegal and economic sabotage, NHRC advises that collective punishment of traders through market closures raises questions about the rights to livelihood, freedom of movement and due process.
He expressed worry that the economic impact of the sit-at-home is staggering, with the Anambra State government estimating losses of N8 billion every Monday.
Traders have consistently cited fear of violence as the reason for compliance, underscoring the need for stronger protection and confidence-building measures.
He urged the state government to prioritise dialogue, ensure adequate security for traders and adopt measures that safeguard economic activity and human rights.
Ojukwu reiterated that development, law enforcement and economic governance must be pursued in ways that respect fundamental rights.
He maintained that forced evictions and collective sanctions erode trust in government, deepen social vulnerabilities and risk fueling instability.
He warned that Nigeria’s progress must be anchored in justice, fairness and respect for the dignity of its citizens, adding that the commission would continue to monitor these situations closely, engage relevant authorities to ensure that Nigeria’s development and governance remain consistent with its human rights obligations.
