Suspected thugs demolish dozens of homes in Lagos community
Stakeholders in Lagos State's real estate sector have raised alarms after suspected land grabbers demolished about 50 buildings in the Surulere community. Many homeowners are now facing significant losses and uncertainty. Israel Ihaza, a real estate CEO, and other experts have condemned these actions, calling for greater transparency and regulation. The incident has sparked concerns about investor confidence and the stability of the local property market.
What happened
- Suspected land grabbers, known as Omo Onile, reportedly demolished around 50 buildings in Surulere, Lagos State.
- The thugs invaded the community on Tuesday, 27 January 2026, demanding between N15m and N25m from homeowners.
- Houses belonging to those unable to pay were demolished, leaving many residents counting their losses.
- Israel Ihaza, CEO of Oikus, called for improved transparency, documentation, and regulatory enforcement in the real estate sector.
- Legal counsel Sola Enitan highlighted the financial impact, stating that demolition has become a tool for extortion and urging affected parties to defend their rights.
