Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
Two rights activists were arraigned on Thursday, January 29, 2026, in Lagos after being charged over their roles in a protest against illegal demolitions, forced evictions and alleged land grabbing in the state. Hassan Taiwo, popularly known as Soweto, and Dele Frank appeared before the Yaba Chief Magistrate’s Court following their arrest during demonstrations that took place on January 28 near Allen Avenue, Alausa, and the Lagos State House of Assembly.
The Lagos State Police Command filed a five-count charge sheet against the pair, accusing them of offences including conspiracy, conduct likely to cause a breach of the peace, threats of violence, unlawful assembly, obstruction of traffic and singing abusive songs against the police and the Lagos State Government. Prosecutors alleged that the activists, along with others still at large, organised and led actions that disrupted traffic and public order during the demonstration.
According to the police, the protest began at the Ikeja under-bridge, where participants blocked Awolowo Road and marched to the House of Assembly complex. The force said the blockade prevented the free flow of traffic, impeded access for residents with medical emergencies, and involved the use of a vehicle fitted with a public address system to mobilise demonstrators. Police said officers were forced to intervene with tear gas to disperse the crowd when protesters insisted on entering the Assembly premises without authorisation.
During court proceedings, both Taiwo and Frank pleaded not guilty to all counts. The arraignment drew legal and procedural attention when human rights lawyer Femi Falana, SAN, entered appearances for the defendants. The prosecution initially objected to his participation, citing an external court ruling they argued barred Senior Advocates from appearing in lower courts, but the magistrate dismissed the objection, affirming that a lawyer’s rank does not restrict their right to represent clients in magistrates’ courts.
Magistrate A.I.O. Alaka granted bail to both defendants in the sum of ₦200,000 each, with two responsible sureties in like sum, and ordered their release into the custody of their counsel pending perfection of bail conditions. The matter was adjourned for mention on March 3, 2026.
The protest that led to the arrests was part of a broader outcry against recent demolition exercises in several Lagos communities, including Makoko, Owode Onirin, Oworonshoki, Otumara and Baba-Ijora, where low-income residents have been affected by enforcement actions targeting informal settlements. Demonstrators carried symbolic items such as a coffin and sought to draw attention to what they described as unjust and inhumane evictions.
Civil society groups and supporters of the activists have criticised the legal action, characterising the charges as an attempt to suppress dissent and peaceful protest. Some reports from advocacy organisations allege that Soweto was subjected to harsh treatment during his arrest, including physical assault and deprivation of access to legal counsel while in custody, claims that Lagos police have denied.
The case highlights ongoing tensions in Lagos between authorities enforcing demolition operations and residents, activists and civil society actors protesting displacement and raising concerns about land rights and housing security. The outcome of the legal proceedings will be closely watched by rights groups and urban communities alike.
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