The waterfront part of the community is largely harboured by the Egun people who migrated from Badagary and Republic of Benin and whose main occupation is fishing.

[2] In July 2012, the Lagos State government ordered that some of the stilts beyond the power lines be brought down without proper notice.

[3] Established in the 19th century, much of Makoko rests in structures constructed on stilts above Lagos Lagoon.

In Yoruba tradition, "Akoko" leaves are used to aid fertility and also used during Chieftaincy coronation, present day Makoko had the leaf growing in abundance.

[3][6][7][8] Two months after the partial demolition, a Serac housing affiliate known as the Urban Spaces Innovation developed a regeneration plan for Makoko that would bring the community together with academics, non-profits, and international consultants.