By Oluwayanmife Ayobami
The recent demolition of the shops in Computer Village, Ikeja, Lagos, has left traders reeling from significant financial losses.
In the wake of this unfortunate event, affected traders are seeking avenues for compensation and redress.
This article explores the legal options available to these traders and provides guidance on how they can pursue compensation for their losses.
Understanding the Situation
The demolition of the shops housed in the POWA plaza in Computer Village resulted in substantial losses for the traders. It resulted in the destruction of valuable goods, loss of income, and disruption of livelihoods. Laptops, phones, and other gadgets were destroyed or looted from the shops.
The sudden and forceful nature of the demolition has left many individuals in distress, prompting them to seek legal recourse. After speaking to one of them, he explained that if he was to calculate everything he lost, it would amount to millions of Naira.
Legal Counsel and Lawsuit
These affected traders can seek legal counsel to explore the possibility of filing a lawsuit against the parties responsible for the demolition.
Through legal action, they can pursue compensation for the value of their destroyed goods, loss of income, and any other related damages.
Gathering evidence, such as documentation of goods, rental payment records, and communication with authorities, will be crucial in supporting their claims.
Advocacy and Stakeholder Engagement
In addition to legal action, affected traders can engage in peaceful advocacy and seek the support of relevant stakeholders, including the Inspector General of Police.
Peaceful protests, media outreach, and social media campaigns can raise awareness about their plight and garner support for their cause.
Engaging Support Organizations
Traders can explore the possibility of engaging non-governmental organizations (NGOs) or legal aid groups that may provide support and legal assistance in pursuing compensation for their losses. Seeking assistance from qualified professionals will help them navigate the complexities of seeking redress. Some legal aid groups that can help are:
- Civil Liberties Organization
- Lagos Citizens Mediation Centre
- Constitutional Rights Project
- Rights Enforcement and Public Law Centre (REPLACE)
- The International Federation of Women
- Lawyers (FIDA)
- Women Aid Collective (WACOL)
- Legal Defence and Assistance Project (LEDAP)
- Lift Above Poverty Organization (LAPO)
- Human Rights Law Service (HURILAWS)
- Just Empower Initiative (JEI)
- Human Rights Monitor
- Project Alert
Learning from Past Experiences
Given the previous demolition in May 2017, affected traders can reach out to individuals or groups who successfully obtained compensation or redress following that incident.
Learning from their experiences and strategies can provide valuable insights for the current situation.
By staying informed about their legal rights and responsibilities, the affected traders can navigate the process of seeking compensation with determination and resilience.
