Community leaders in Oko-Addo, in the Ajah area of Lagos State, have urged Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu to intervene in the demolition of their buildings allegedly by land grabbers.

The leaders decried the rate at which land grabbers allegedly invaded the community with thugs and deadly weapons, forcing residents to leave.

Najeem Agunbiade, the Baale of Oko-Addo, told journalists on Sunday that the land grabbers, allegedly led by an army officer, invaded the community with security personnel and state officials.

“We have been on this matter for years, and the case is in court. The court told us to maintain the status quo,” Mr Agunbiade said.

“But recently, we saw security personnel and officials demolishing houses in the community, claiming they have state government approval for the land.

“They invaded the community, chasing people out and demolishing houses with military threats,” the community leader added.

Malik Eshinlokun, property secretary of the community development association, described the demolition as a slap in the face, leaving many residents homeless.

“We have struggled for this land for over 20 years. The army officer claims he purchased it from the state government.

“But the land rightfully belongs to the indigenes, passed down through our forefathers from the first King of Lagos, King Addo.

“Recently, we saw security personnel and civilians destroying and demolishing houses, despite the ongoing court case,” he said.

Mr Eshinlokun urged the state government to intervene, conduct a thorough investigation, and bring the culprits to justice.

(NAN)