by Dolapo Adelana

The Lagos State Government has justified Sunday’s invasion of Otodo Gbame, a riverine community in the state.

In a statement via its Twitter account, @LAGOSGMT1, the governor’s monitoring team said the decision was taken in the best interest of Lagosians.

The team added that militants had turned the community to their operational base.

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It said, “The demolition of #OtodoGbame was carried out as a security measure in the overall interest of all Lagosians.

“Intelligence report has revealed that militants are using the illegal #OtodoGbame settlement as a base.

“Credible intelligence gathering shows that militants are living amongst the people in #OtodoGbame and are perfecting plans to attack Lekki and VI.

“LASG places a high premium on security and will not abdicate in its duty to protect the lives and property of all residents. #OtodoGbame.

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“The killing of security agents in the Ishawo area of Lagos by militants further strengthens the resolve of government to clear the #OtodoGbame.

“The Lagos State government in collaboration with security agencies will stop at nothing to secure the State. #OtodoGbame.

“The government will not succumb to emotional blackmail and will stand by this decision because it is in the best interest of all residents #OtodoGbame.

The settlement in Otodo Gbame is illegal, without any title or appropriate government approval. #OtodoGbame.

“We are willing to take unpopular decisions that will protect lives and property. The #OtodoGbame situation is one of such.”