The Lagos State Government has intensified its clampdown on illegal developments as officials from the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), commenced a fresh round of demolitions in the Ikate-Elegushi corridor. The operation is part of a broader statewide effort to eradicate structures erected without statutory approvals or in violation of physical planning regulations.
The exercise, executed jointly by the Lagos State House of Assembly, the Office of Urban Development, and LASBCA, targeted buildings encroaching on drainage channels, exceeding approved construction limits, or posing risks to public safety and environmental integrity.
Government Officials Endorse Enforcement Drive
Chairman of the House Committee on Physical Development, Sylvester Ogunkelu, expressed strong support for the intensified enforcement, stressing that adherence to building standards is non-negotiable in a mega city like Lagos.
Similarly, Arc. Gbolahan Owodunni Oki, Permanent Secretary of the Office of Urban Development, highlighted that illegal structures undermine the state’s urban development plans and environmental safeguards. He reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to supporting LASBCA in ensuring compliance with established building regulations.
Acting General Manager of LASBCA, Gbaye Florence, noted that property owners affected by the demolitions had been served multiple notices, including stop-work directives and demolition orders, but failed to comply. She emphasized that unapproved buildings often lack structural integrity, posing serious threats to lives and property.
“The agency will no longer condone deliberate violations of the law,” Florence warned.
Extension of Operations to Lekki–Ikoyi Corridor
Following the Ikate-Elegushi exercise, enforcement teams extended operations to the Lekki–Ikoyi axis, uncovering additional illegal constructions. Several buildings erected beneath high-tension power lines were marked for immediate removal due to extreme safety risks.
Officials seized the opportunity to caution residents and developers that the era of impunity in building construction is over. The ongoing cleanup, they noted, will cover all parts of the state, particularly areas prone to flooding, erosion, or other environmental hazards.
During the Lekki–Ikoyi operation, teams engaged with community members, reminding them that non-compliance with building approvals carries severe consequences. Ogunkelu reiterated that the House of Assembly will continue backing agencies involved in sanitising the built environment.
“The government is determined to protect citizens and restore order in the physical development sector. We will do our utmost best to reclaim public or private property illegally taken over by land grabbers,” he stated.
Call for Compliance
The Lagos State Government has urged developers, landlords, and prospective homeowners to follow due process by obtaining valid approvals before commencing construction, warning that ignorance of the law will not be accepted as a defense.
This operation underscores Lagos’ determination to maintain order in urban planning, safeguard public safety, and protect the environment. The government has made it clear that illegal construction, especially in vulnerable areas, will no longer be tolerated.