Nigeria, Jan. 23 -- Human rights and civil society groups have condemned the Lagos State Government's relentless demolitions in waterfront and informal settlements-Makoko, Oworonshoki, Owode Onirin, Otumara, and Baba-Ijora-which have displaced thousands and left at least 12 dead, despite a $200 million World Bank initiative aimed at upgrading slums and improving living conditions.

Civil society leaders described the demolitions as part of a systemic attack on the urban poor, carried out without consultation, compensation, or resettlement, raising urgent questions about human rights, governance, and the oversight of international development funds.

At a press conference held at the International Press Centre in Ogba, Lagos State, on Thur...