Residents of the Natufe community near Babs Animashaun Street, in the Bode Thomas area of Surulere, Lagos, have raised alarm over the environmental and health risks posed by a proposed cemetery project in their neighborhood.
During a peaceful protest on Saturday, the residents carried placards with messages such as “Protect our children, our health, and our environment,” “Respect CDA laws,” and “We need green spaces, not graves.”
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They argued that siting a cemetery in a densely populated area could contaminate underground water sources and disrupt the area’s environmental balance.
The protesters also called for the land to be used for community-friendly purposes such as parks or recreational centers.
Mrs. Omolabake Aminat Braimoh, Chairperson of the Natufe/Animashaun Community Development Association (CDA), told TheCable that the community had previously rejected the project due to environmental safety concerns.
“Over two years ago, they tried to start the construction, but we stopped it. We are worried about pollution and how it may affect our children’s health and overall wellbeing,” she said.
Residents vowed to continue their advocacy and petitions until the state government completely cancels the cemetery project, insisting that the community deserves a clean and healthy environment, not gravesites.
