00:00The Lagos State Assembly has stepped in to stop ongoing demolitions in the waterfront community of Makoko
00:06after protests last week by residents and rights groups.
00:11Peaceful demonstrations at the Assembly turned violent as police fired tear gas and attempted arrests.
00:18Activists have condemned the police actions and are calling for an independent investigation
00:23and the removal of the police commissioner.
00:26Lawmakers have ordered a pause to give time to review the process
00:30and clear up confusion over how far buildings should be set back from the water.
00:36Residents say demolitions went well beyond the approved 30 metres, leaving hundreds of people homeless.
00:43But the government claims only unsafe areas and power line corridors were cleared
00:48and says the governor had already ordered a pause.
00:52Authorities insist the goal is to improve safety and modernise the area
00:57through a planned $10 billion Makoko Water City regeneration project.
01:02Local leaders are pushing for clearer rules and help for displaced families.
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