Democratic Socialist Movement

For Struggle, Solidarity and Socialism in Nigeria

By - DSM

Protest Against Forced Eviction of Lagos Poor Repressed by Police

Release Soweto and Others Now

A protester is shot

Front of the January 28 protest

Hassan Taiwo Soweto, a leading member of the Democratic Socialist Movement (DSM) and spokesperson of #EndBadGovernance Movement Lagos, probably with other protesters, was arrested today at the Lagos State House of Assembly. This was at a protest against the unjust demolition and forced eviction of Makoko, Oworonshoki, Owode Onirin and other poor people communities in Lagos.

The police unleashed teargas and live bullets to forcefully disperse the peaceful protesters . A protester was shot in the leg and a woman at present does not know the whereabouts of her baby as a result of the stampede.

Soweto speaking at the January 28 protest

The protesters were largely the victims of demolition and members of the targeted communities.

We call for the immediate and unconditional release of Soweto and others.

The government should stop the unjust demolition and adequately compensate the victims of the forced evictions.

Peluola Adewale

Organising Secretary, Democratic Socialist Movement (DSM)