The Lagos State Government’s offer of N23 million as compensation for a disputed parcel of land has been rejected by human rights lawyer Femi Falana and the family of late labour icon, Dr Michael Imoudu. The land, located in Ojuelegba, Surulere, was allegedly taken over by the state government for the construction of a bus terminal. However, the family and their legal representatives argue that the compensation is grossly inadequate, valuing the property at not less than N250 million.
The rejection was made known during the 20th posthumous anniversary of Dr Imoudu, which was attended by representatives of the Federal Government, senior labour leaders, and trade union veterans. Falana, alongside fellow labour and human rights advocate Femi Aborisade, cited Section 44(1) of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantees just and fair compensation for compulsorily acquired property. The matter is already before the court, following the family’s decision to challenge the acquisition and compensation.
Dr Veronica Omosun-Imoudu, daughter of the late labour leader, reiterated the family’s appeal to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to intervene in resolving the issue. The family had initially planned to use the Ojuelegba property to build a labour museum in honour of Dr Imoudu but was dismayed by the compensation offer, which they described as insignificant compared to the land’s estimated value of nearly N300 million. A formal request was made to the governor on November 15, 2024, for an alternative parcel of land to build the proposed Michael Imoudu Labour Museum, but a favourable response is still pending.
Falana proposed a joint utilization of the land by the government and the family for a public legacy project, such as the establishment of a labour museum named after Dr Imoudu. The family and their legal representatives maintain that a fair resolution would not only uphold constitutional provisions but also preserve the historical legacy of one of Nigeria’s most influential labour leaders. The case highlights the ongoing struggle for fair compensation and the preservation of cultural heritage in Nigeria, with the family and their representatives seeking a just and fair outcome.
