‎Two activists arraigned over Lagos anti-demolition protest

Two prominent activists have been arraigned in court as they face trial over their alleged roles in an anti-demolition protest in Lagos State.
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‎Comrade Hassan Taiwo, popularly known as Soweto, and Dele Frank were brought before the Yaba Chief Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, January 29, 2026, by the Lagos State Police Command.
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‎They were charged on a five-count information linked to a protest staged on January 28, 2026, against illegal demolitions, forcible evictions and alleged land grabbing near the Lagos State House of Assembly.
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‎The charges filed by the prosecution include conspiracy, conduct likely to cause breach of the peace, threats, unlawful assembly, obstruction of traffic, and singing abusive songs against the police and the Lagos State Government.
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‎ Prosecutor Anthony Ihiehie told the court that the activists’ actions at Allen Avenue, Alausa, and the Assembly premises were capable of threatening public order and disrupting traffic.
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‎Both defendants pleaded not guilty to all charges before Magistrate I.O. Alaka.
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‎A brief courtroom exchange occurred when renowned human rights lawyer Femi Falana, SAN announced his representation of the activists.
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‎The prosecution initially objected, referencing a 2025 Oyo State court ruling that they said barred Senior Advocates of Nigeria from appearing in lower courts.
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‎ Mr. Falana countered that both the 1999 Constitution and the Lagos State Magistrates’ Court Law allow any qualified legal practitioner to appear in such courts, irrespective of rank.
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‎The magistrate agreed with Falana, affirming that the rank of SAN is not a restriction.
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‎The court granted both Taiwo and Frank bail of ₦200,000 each, with two responsible sureties of similar value. The case was adjourned to March 3, 2026, for mention.
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‎The arraignment underscores ongoing tensions in Lagos between civil society groups protesting against demolition actions and state authorities enforcing demolition policies.