Outrage as Agege LG Demolishes 30-Year-Old Private School Building

A heated dispute has erupted between the management of Edwards Private School in Agege, Lagos State, and the Agege Local Government over the demolition of the school’s 30-year-old three-storey building. The demolition has sparked outrage among residents, former students, and school officials.

The school claims ownership of both the building and the land, accusing the council of illegal demolition. In contrast, the Agege Local Government defended its actions, asserting that the school lacked valid property titles. A confiscation notice was placed on the school’s fence shortly before the demolition, witnessed by local reporters.

During the demolition, the school’s equipment, including computers and other electronic items, were destroyed. Staff members were reportedly prevented from salvaging books, files, and other properties. The school also stated that they have been paying levies, taxes, and rates to the council since 1992.

A staff member, Mrs. Adetoro, showed reporters documents supporting the school’s ownership claims, including an approved building plan, court judgments, a Registered Conveyance, and governor’s consent obtained 30 years ago. Despite presenting these documents, the council proceeded with the demolition.

Ganiyu Egunjobi, the Chairman of Agege Local Government, confirmed the council’s involvement, arguing that the school could not provide valid ownership papers. He further explained that the land is part of an extension to the Proposed New Agege Model Market.

The Lagos State Government has remained silent on the issue, with a source at the Ministry of Local Government Affairs stating that the ministry cannot interfere due to local government autonomy. The source advised the school management to petition the Lagos State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs and the House of Assembly Committee on Local Government for further intervention.