By ffeoma Ikem
A bitter family dispute over a prime property in Ikosi-Ketu, Lagos, has escalated into a major controversy following a demolition exercise that left residents displaced, properties damaged, and police officers reportedly detained amid questions surrounding the legality of the operation.
The disputed property, located at No. 23B Loveall Street, has become the focal point of a long-running disagreement within the Omotayo-Ojo family following the death of the property’s owner, the late Chief Oludola Omotayo Ojo, Babaalaje of Imesi-Ile, Osun State, in 2019.
What residents described as a routine day quickly descended into chaos when a group of individuals, allegedly accompanied by security personnel, arrived at the premises and commenced demolition activities.
Witnesses said parts of the building were pulled down while tenants scrambled to salvage belongings from affected apartments.
Several residents alleged that windows, doors and roofing materials were destroyed during the operation, leaving portions of the building exposed and vulnerable. Personal belongings were also reportedly damaged, heightening tensions in the neighbourhood.
At the centre of the dispute is Mrs. Mojisola Omotayo Ojo Alolagbe, who maintains that the property was allocated to her by her late father during his lifetime as a means of financial support and sustenance.
According to Mrs. Alolagbe, some members of the family have repeatedly challenged her claim to the property despite ongoing legal proceedings concerning ownership and estate administration.
She further alleged that the latest demolition was part of a pattern of attempts to take control of the property, citing previous incidents in November 2025, January 2026 and February 2026, during which parts of the building were allegedly damaged.
Residents described the latest action as the most extensive so far, with some tenants expressing fears about their safety and uncertainty over their continued occupation of the premises.
The controversy deepened when reports emerged that police officers allegedly involved in the demolition exercise were later apprehended and transported in a Black Maria vehicle following questions about their role in the operation.
Sources familiar with the matter claimed that those behind the demolition initially cited approval from the Lagos State Ministry of Lands as justification for the exercise. However, the authenticity and scope of such approval have since come under scrutiny.
Community members have expressed concern over the alleged involvement of security personnel in what many regard as a civil dispute, warning that such actions could undermine public confidence in law enforcement agencies.
Several tenants who recently renewed their tenancy agreements lamented the losses suffered during the demolition and appealed to authorities for protection and compensation where necessary.
Residents also called for an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the exercise, insisting that the rights of lawful occupants and all parties involved must be protected.
As tensions continue to simmer, stakeholders are urging the Lagos State Government, security agencies and the judiciary to intervene swiftly to prevent further escalation and ensure that the dispute is resolved through due legal process.
For now, the damaged property stands as a symbol of a family feud that has spilled beyond the courtroom, drawing public attention and raising fresh questions about property rights, estate administration and the rule of law.
