Justice Ejiro Kubenje of the Yaba Magistrate Court in Lagos State has discharged 13 residents linked to offences during the protest against the demolition of houses and structures in the Oworonshoki area of the state.
The 13 Oworonshoki residents had been standing trial over alleged offences linked to protests against the demolition of more than 70 residential structures in their community, which were carried out at the Ajileru, Ososa extension and Toluwalase streets.
The defendants were arraigned in connection with demonstrations that followed the controversial demolition exercise in parts of Oworonshoki, which had sparked widespread anger among residents who alleged displacement, lack of adequate notice and compensation, and heavy-handed treatment by security operatives during earlier protests.
TVC News previously reported that the demolition was carried out barely days after a Lagos High Court order restrained the state government and its agencies from carrying out any further demolition in the area.
TVC News also reported that the Lagos State Government distributed millions of naira as compensation to residents affected by the Oworonshoki demolition.
More than 100 residents received compensation in batches, with various sums awarded to help them get back on their feet.
Speaking to newsmen, the general manager of Lagos State Urban Renewal Agency, Animashaun Oladimeji, noted that the batches won’t be the end of the distribution, as many more will be compensated over several batches.
Counsel to the defendants, Bolaji Oluwatosin, Esq., who appeared for the thirteen (13) defendants on behalf of the Take It Back Movement (TIBM), was quoted saying, “Today, 13 courageous citizens of Oworonshoki, who protested the unlawful demolition of their homes, have been vindicated; the Court has dismissed all charges against them, and they are free.”
He added, “This is not just a personal victory; it is a triumph of the Nigerian people and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999, which guarantees the right to peaceful assembly under Section 40; it affirms the right of citizens to speak, protest, and defend their homes without fear of persecution.”
“Their struggle is a testament to the resilience of ordinary Nigerians; it reminds every government and agency that the people’s voice cannot be silenced. Today, justice has prevailed, but the fight for accountability and the protection of our rights continues,” he concluded.
