Court Adjourns Soweto, Dele Frank’s Trial Over Makoko Demolition Protest To October 26

Court Adjourns Soweto, Dele Frank’s Trial Over Makoko Demolition Protest to October 26 A Lagos State Magistrate’s Court sitting in Yaba has adjourned the trial of activists Hassan Taiwo Soweto and Dele Frank to October 26, 2026, over their alleged involvement in a protest against the demolition of Makoko and the eviction of residents of other informal communities in Lagos State. The case stems from a demonstration held on January 28, 2026, against the planned demolition of Makoko and the displacement of residents in other communities, including Owode-Onirin, Ajegunle and Oworonshoki. The latest adjournment followed the absence of the police prosecutor and prosecution witnesses when the matter came up for trial. Counsel to the defendants, O.C. Olagunju, said an application would be made to strike out the case if the prosecution failed to appear at the next hearing. Soweto said proceedings had remained largely preliminary since the defendants were arraigned on January 29, noting that the trial was earlier adjourned on May 28 for commencement. He alleged that protesters were attacked and repressed by the police during the demonstration, with several people sustaining injuries and personal belongings and equipment being seized. According to Soweto, between 80 and 90 per cent of the items seized by the police have since been recovered following an earlier court order directing their release. However, a laptop belonging to a DJ reportedly remains in police custody. The activist called on the authorities at Panti Police Station and the Lagos State Police Command to ensure the immediate release of the outstanding laptop. Soweto also maintained that the defendants remained committed to their position and would continue to advocate for what he described as the right of poor and working-class residents to live in Lagos. The case will now return to court on October 26, 2026, when proceedings are expected to resume.