The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has commenced an investigation into allegations of human rights violations arising from the demolition of properties at Blue Roof Estate, Surulere Community, Alagbado area of Lagos State.

The probe follows a petition dated May 5, 2026, submitted by Mr. Akeem Aponmade on behalf of affected residents.

The petition, registered as Case No. C/2026/CPR/1492/HQ, accuses certain individuals and officials of involvement in acts that allegedly breached residents’ fundamental rights.

In an acknowledgment to the petitioners, the commission confirmed receipt of the complaint and stated that it would examine the allegations in line with its constitutional and statutory responsibilities.

According to the petition, residents alleged that between January 27 and February 26, the community was invaded by a large group of armed individuals, leading to widespread demolition of houses, fences and other structures.

Aponmade alleged that the operation was carried out by persons purportedly acting on behalf of private individuals, and that it was linked to the Chairman of Agbado Oke-Odo Local Council Development Area, Mr. Abiodun Ejigbadero.

The claims, however, remain allegations at this stage.

The petition further stated that the individuals involved claimed to be enforcing a court order on behalf of the Federal Housing Authority (FHA).

However, the FHA subsequently issued a disclaimer denying any role in the exercise.
Residents alleged that the incident resulted in harassment, intimidation and displacement of several families, as well as disruption of livelihoods within the estate.

The petition also claimed that one resident died during the crisis, while others were allegedly compelled under duress to make payments of up to N5 million into a private account and sign undertakings for additional payments, with threats of losing their properties if they failed to comply.

According to the petitioners, these actions amount to violations of constitutionally guaranteed rights, including the right to life, dignity, and ownership of property, as well as protection from unlawful acquisition.

The lawyer further alleged that some individuals connected to the incident were declared wanted by the Nigeria Police Force, Zone 2 Command, following complaints lodged by the FHA.

Concerns were also raised over what the residents described as delays in enforcement actions despite the declaration.
It was also alleged that demolition activities continued despite restraining orders issued by a Lagos State High Court, presided over by Justice D.T. Olatokun.

Aponmade claimed that security personnel, including officers of the Nigeria Police and the Lagos State Government Task Force, were present during the operations.

He added that following further court intervention directing security agencies to withdraw from the area, the demolition activities ceased.

The residents, through their counsel, are seeking an independent investigation into the incident, accountability for those found responsible, and justice for the reported loss of life.

They also called on the commission to facilitate the prosecution of alleged perpetrators and examine the role of security agencies present during the incident, including any possible lapses or misconduct.

Supporting documents submitted with the petition include the FHA’s disclaimer, records of police actions, alleged evidence of payments, bank details, and photographic materials said to show the extent of the demolition. The NHRC is yet to conclude its findings.