75-Year-Old Displaced Squatter Narrates Ordeal – Why I Lived Under Lagos Bridge

75-Year-Old Displaced Squatter Narrates Ordeal – Why I Lived Under Lagos Bridge

Usman Hassan, a 75-year-old Ghanaian, is among the displaced squatters affected by the recent eviction from the 86 apartments located under the Dolphin Estate Bridge in Ikoyi, Lagos. Hassan has recounted his challenging ordeal while residing in that environment…..READ ALSO 75-Year-Old Displaced Squatter Narrates Ordeal Why I Lived Under Lagos Bridge

Following the revelation by the Lagos State Government last week about the existence of under-bridge apartments, where tenants reportedly paid N250,000 annually, the enforcement team of the Ministry of Environment and Water Resources embarked on a successful operation to remove all structures, including a container used for various illegal activities.

In an interview with Daily Trust, Hassan disclosed that he had previously worked as a teacher at Remo Divisional High School in Ogun State for 11 years before relocating to Lagos. He acknowledged the dangers of sleeping under the bridge but explained that many people, including himself, sought refuge in those apartments and shanties due to the challenging living conditions and unaffordable rents in Lagos.

Hassan revealed that he was not present during the raid conducted by Lagos officials and consequently lost some of his belongings in the process. He mentioned that while the owner of the place did not demand rent from him personally, others paid varying amounts, including the reported N250,000.

Expressing the harsh realities faced by many Nigerians, Hassan highlighted the difficulty of finding work to sustain oneself, forcing people to resort to such makeshift accommodations. Despite the risks associated with living under the bridge, he emphasized that the dire situation in the country often leaves individuals with no other choice.

Hassan concluded by stating that he was left penniless after the eviction and expressed his intention to relocate once again. His narrative sheds light on the plight of displaced individuals and underscores the urgent need for sustainable solutions to address homelessness and poverty in the country.

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