Heartbreak in Makoko: Grieving Father Blames Infant’s Death on Forced Evictions and Exposure

The humanitarian crisis following the recent demolitions in the Makoko waterfront has taken a tragic turn, as a grieving father has attributed the death of his young child to the harsh conditions caused by the forced evictions.

The father, a resident of the displaced fishing community, revealed that his child passed away after days of exposure to the elements. Since their home was demolished by Lagos State authorities on Monday, the family has been among the hundreds forced to sleep in open wooden canoes on the lagoon, with no protection from the cold night air, mosquitoes, or rain.

According to the distraught parent, the infant developed a severe fever and respiratory issues shortly after they were rendered homeless. With their belongings lost in the demolition and no access to immediate medical care or stable shelter, the child’s condition worsened rapidly.

“My child was healthy before they came and destroyed our house,” the father shared amidst tears. “We have been sleeping on the water inside a canoe. There is no roof, no warmth. My baby could not survive the cold. They didn't just take our house; they took my child’s life.”

As the community mourns, there are growing fears of a health epidemic among the displaced population, particularly children and the elderly, who remain stranded on the water with dwindling supplies of food and clean water.

Who should be held accountable for the loss of lives during forced evictions? Is there ever a justification for demolishing homes without providing an alternative for families? Share your comments below.

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