Resettling Nigeria's urban poor

The recent ruling by the Lagos High Court declaring the forcible eviction of residents of the Otodo Gbame waterfront community as unconstitutional has brought to light the ongoing battle between urban development and the rights of Nigeria's urban poor. Despite this victory, the fight is far from over as Lagos State has decided to appeal the court's decision. Aniette Ewang, Senior Legal Officer at the Social and Economic Rights Action Centre, sheds light on the complexities surrounding the resettlement of urban populations in Nigeria. Ewang commended the court's decision as a win for the two-thirds of Lagos' population residing in informal settlements. She emphasized the importance of upholding the dignity and human rights of individuals in these communities. With Lagos experiencing a staggering 8% annual population growth rate, the challenges of urban informality and forced evictions persist. Ewang stressed the need for a collaborative approach between the government and affected communities to address these issues effectively. The key theme that emerges from Ewang's insights is the necessity of inclusive and consultative urban planning that prioritizes the well-being of all residents, regardless of socio-economic status. She highlighted the significance of adhering to UN guidelines on development-based evictions and underscored the essential steps that must precede any eviction, including consultation, enumeration of affected individuals, opportunities for grievances to be heard, and detailed resettlement plans. One of the key points raised by Ewang is the imperative for the government to adopt a forward-thinking approach to urban development that anticipates the future needs of a rapidly growing population. With Nigeria projected to become one of the most populous countries globally by 2050, strategic planning and infrastructure development are paramount. The existing infrastructure deficit in Lagos, coupled with a housing shortage exceeding 5 million units, underscores the urgency of addressing these challenges holistically. Another critical issue highlighted by Ewang is the inadequacy of affordable housing options for low-income populations in Lagos. While the government has initiated formal housing schemes, the high cost of land and property regularization pose significant barriers for those in need of affordable housing. The escalating trend of informal settlements due to housing unaffordability further underscores the imperative of proactive measures to provide social housing, cooperative housing, and affordable land access for urban residents. In conclusion, Ewang's interview underscores the vital importance of sustainable urban planning that prioritizes the rights and well-being of all residents, particularly the urban poor. As Nigeria grapples with rapid urbanization and population growth, it is essential for the government to adopt a proactive and inclusive approach to urban development that ensures equitable access to housing and essential services for all citizens. The ongoing legal battle over the Otodo Gbame community serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges and complexities inherent in resettling Nigeria's urban poor.