Tenants allege police harassment at Ilupeju property in Lagos, urging urgent government action amid claims of unlawful arrests and intimidation
Tenants allege police harassment in an unfolding property crisis at No. 5 Association Avenue, Ilupeju, Lagos.
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They say operatives from Zone 2 Police Command, Onikan, have unlawfully arrested residents and supported an attempted forced eviction despite an existing court order.
Mr Vincent Uba, who spoke on behalf of affected tenants, described a wave of intimidation, including arrests, threats and unauthorised building activity.
“I honoured a police invitation expecting a civil discussion,” Uba said. “Instead, I was warned to vacate or face consequences.”
The conflict began after a seven-day quit notice was issued by the Oyo State Ministry of Justice, acting as administrator of the estate of the late Samuel Ogundele.
The notice labelled the residents as tenants at will, giving them one week to vacate.
Uba insisted the duration was not only unfair but unlawful. He said tenants should receive at least six months’ notice under Nigerian tenancy law.
He refused to sign an agreement to vacate within 14 days, unlike others who signed under pressure.
According to him, the police escalated their presence on the premises. Truckloads of building materials blocked entrances.
Workers dismantled a CCTV camera. Labourers later tried to force their way into apartments. Only swift action from neighbours stopped them.
On another day, officers arrested several residents and detained them overnight. Two remain in custody at Ikoyi Prison.
Uba said the situation worsened after he filed legal action. Armed police stormed his home early in the morning, he claimed, seeking to intimidate him into silence.
“I have been advised not to speak, warned I could be arrested or worse. But if we do not act now, we legitimise injustice,” he added.
The police have not responded to repeated calls or messages regarding the allegations.
Uba called on the government to investigate the conduct of police officers and ensure protection for law-abiding citizens caught in disputes.
He emphasised that while landlords have rights, tenants must not be stripped of dignity, safety or due process.
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As the standoff continues, the tenants allege police harassment and rights abuses are rising unchecked, turning a legal matter into a humanitarian concern.
