Therapy Centre Eviction Leaves 32 Children With Autism, Cerebral Palsy Homeless in Lagos
The forced eviction of 32 children with developmental disabilities from a therapy centre in Yaba, Lagos, has raised fresh concerns about child protection and safeguarding in Nigeria.
The children, many living with autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, and dyslexia, lost access to their safe space after officials enforced an eviction order at Magnificient Therapy Services on May 13. The centre had operated in the community for 16 years and provided therapy, shelter, and daily care for vulnerable children.
For these children, routine and stability are essential. However, the sudden eviction disrupted their daily therapy, emotional support, and structured care. Caregivers struggled to comfort distressed children as furniture and therapy materials were thrown outside during the operation.
Child rights advocates say the incident reflects the growing risks children with disabilities face when support systems suddenly fail. Many depend on familiar surroundings and consistent therapy to maintain their physical, emotional, and cognitive development. Without these systems, some may experience emotional distress, behavioural setbacks, and interrupted progress.
“This is not just about losing a building,” co-founder Bidemi Jaiyesimi said. “These children lost a place where they felt safe and understood.”
Some parents quickly arrived to take their children home after hearing about the eviction. Others, however, had no immediate alternatives. Staff members reportedly moved some children into an unfinished building, while neighbours provided temporary shelter for a few others.
Although the centre reportedly received notice to vacate months earlier, management said it needed more time to relocate the children safely. Despite appeals for intervention, the eviction proceeded.
Global organisations, including the World Health Organisation and UNICEF, have repeatedly stressed the need for stable care systems for children with developmental disabilities. They warn that sudden disruptions in therapy and shelter can affect children’s long-term well-being and social development.
Meanwhile, child protection advocates are calling for urgent government support, emergency shelter, and stronger safeguarding policies for vulnerable children.
For the displaced children in Yaba, uncertainty now replaces the stability they once depended on.
