By Kayode Olopade
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Monday presented compensation cheques worth ₦3 billion to 331 Project Affected Persons (PAPs) whose land and properties were acquired for strategic road infrastructure projects, reaffirming his administration's commitment to balancing rapid urban development with justice, fairness and respect for citizens' rights.
Speaking during the cheque presentation ceremony at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Alausa, Ikeja, the Governor said the compensation exercise underscored the government's resolve to ensure that infrastructure development is pursued without compromising the welfare of affected residents.
Sanwo-Olu explained that although the government is empowered by the Land Use Act to acquire land for overriding public interest, it also bears a legal and moral responsibility to compensate affected property owners promptly, transparently and equitably.
"Today, we have gathered not merely to present compensation cheques, but to reaffirm a principle that lies at the heart of responsible governance: that development must always have a human face," the Governor declared.
He noted that every parcel of land acquired represents the dreams, livelihoods and life investments of individuals and families, stressing that compensation should never be viewed as an act of generosity but as a constitutional right.
"It is not charity; it is justice. It is not a favour; it is your right. Progress that overlooks people cannot endure, and development that ignores justice cannot command public trust," he said.
The Governor disclosed that all beneficiaries emerged through a comprehensive verification process involving physical enumeration, professional valuation by certified estate surveyors and verification of title documents to guarantee that only genuine property owners benefited from the exercise.
According to him, the acquired properties will pave the way for strategic road infrastructure projects designed to improve connectivity, ease traffic congestion, enhance the movement of goods and services, stimulate commerce and accelerate socio-economic development across Lagos State.
Acknowledging the sacrifices made by residents whose properties were affected, Sanwo-Olu expressed appreciation for their patience, cooperation and understanding, assuring them that their contributions to the state's development would not be forgotten.
"Your sacrifice is acknowledged, your contribution is appreciated, and your partnership in the development of Lagos State will never be taken for granted," he said.
The Governor urged beneficiaries to utilise the compensation judiciously by investing wisely, securing their families' future and rebuilding their lives. He added that officials of the Lagos State Lands Bureau would continue to provide guidance and necessary documentation to facilitate a seamless compensation process.
He also reassured other property owners whose claims are still undergoing verification that no legitimate claimant would be denied compensation, urging them to remain patient as the exercise progresses in line with due process.
Sanwo-Olu, however, warned against fraudulent claims and attempts to manipulate the compensation process, emphasizing that the government's robust verification mechanisms would identify and expose impostors.
He commended officials of the Lagos State Lands Bureau, estate surveyors, land surveyors, engineers, town planners, community leaders and other stakeholders for their professionalism and commitment to ensuring a transparent and credible exercise.
Reiterating his administration's vision of inclusive governance, the Governor said the state was not only constructing roads and other critical infrastructure but also strengthening public confidence through accountability, transparency and respect for the rule of law.
"We are not simply acquiring land to build infrastructure; we are building trust and laying the foundation for the Lagos of tomorrow. Together, we shall continue to build a Greater Lagos that works for everyone," Sanwo-Olu stated before presenting the compensation cheques to the beneficiaries.
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