In Lagos, Nigeria, forced evictions of informal settlements are rampant within the context of inadequate urban planning, resulting in significant displacement of residents who have been marginalized for decades. The demolitions often occur without proper notice or resettlement plans, contradicting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals that aim to improve conditions in slums by tackling issues such as tenure security, access to services, and dignified living standards.

The specific case of Makoko, the largest floating settlement in the world, illustrates the adverse impact of these evictions. Residents face losing their homes and livelihoods, which further intensifies the humanitarian crisis in the city. With the recent statistics showing that from 1973 to 2024, there have been 91 forced evictions affecting over two million people, the scale of the issue highlights the ongoing struggle residents have against state actions that disrupt their basic right to housing and safety.

As these evictions continue, they not only contribute to a deepening sense of urban poverty but also escalate crime and insecurity in the region. The promise of 'housing for all' remains unfulfilled, and the plight of these communities raises questions about governance and the need for more inclusive urban policies that prioritize the rights and needs of the most vulnerable populations in Lagos.