**Demolition of 50 Buildings in Lagos: Stakeholders Call for Transparency in Real Estate Sector** A recent wave of destruction has hit the Surulere community in Lagos State, as suspected land grabbers, known as Omo Onile, brought down about 50 buildings in the area. This incident has raised concerns among stakeholders in the real estate sector, who are now calling for transparency and proper documentation in the industry. According to reports, the Omo Onile thugs invaded the Amikanle community, near the Command area of Alimosho Local Government Area, on January 27, 2026, and demanded between N15m and N25m from house owners. Those who were unable to pay had their houses demolished. This brazen act has left many homeowners counting their losses and wondering what the future holds for the affected families. In a statement, Mr Israel Ihaza, the founder and CEO of Oikus, condemned the demolition and emphasized the need for transparency in the real estate sector. Ihaza noted that disorder thrives where there is opacity, and when ownership records are unclear, enforcement is weak, and property visibility is fragmented. This, he said, creates room for abuse by bad actors. Ihaza expressed optimism that the government is actively working to strengthen the sector through digital oversight, regulatory enforcement, and professionalization. However, he acknowledged that these reforms take time to implement. The Omo Onile menace, he said, has been a structural challenge for years, and it is imperative that the government tackles it head-on to prevent future incidents. The demolition of these buildings is a stark reminder of the challenges facing the real estate sector in Nigeria. It highlights the need for a more transparent and regulated industry that protects the rights of property owners and ensures that those who abuse the system are held accountable. As the government continues to work on reforms to strengthen the sector, it is essential that all stakeholders, including property owners, developers, and regulatory bodies, work together to create a more robust and accountable real estate industry that serves the interests of all Nigerians.