Lagos state begins demolition of substandard buildings in Ikeja
The Lagos State Government, on Saturday, commenced demolition of illegal structures in Ikeja GRA, including shanties and unauthorized buildings, following security and planning concerns.
The exercise focused on areas that violated building laws and was directed by Gbolahan Oki, the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Building Control Agency.
Unauthorised stalls and damaged buildings were demolished as the team made their way through streets like Michael Otedola, Sowemimo, Remi Fani-Kayode, and Ajisafe.
In an interview with reporters, Oki claimed that some property owners had legitimate permits but had broken the restrictions by changing buildings—for example, converting four apartments into eight—putting a burden on the infrastructure and warping the urban design.
“There have been complaints from the residents of Ikeja GRA about abnormalities in the construction process.
“We began enforcement from 9.00 a.m. today and visited many construction sites. Most of them actually have valid approvals, and even the buildings assumed not to conform to, in fact, meet the required standards.
“Some people get approval for four flats but turn them into eight, or they have approval to build a duplex but they convert it. This puts a heavy burden on public infrastructure. We can’t let Ikeja GRA become like Ajegunle,” he said.
The Permanent Secretary of the LASBCA pointed out that the organisation had already sent letters to every owner of real estate in Ikeja GRA asking them to submit building permits for validation.
He pointed out that buildings that were discovered to be in breach of planning laws were designated for corrective action, and that they would be razed if the owners did not comply.
According the Permanent Secretary of the LASBCA, the proliferation of illicit structures has exacerbated security issues and hindered efficient police and private security team surveillance.
“The enforcement exercise followed adequate notice and engagement with stakeholders, and is aimed at removing shanties, makeshift stalls, and unauthorised structures linked to illegal activities in order to restore safety, order, and proper urban planning,” he explained.
In April, Oki has issued a warning to developers and property owners in Lagos State to make sure that building codes are followed in order to prevent similar enforcement proceedings in other parts of the state however, some residents have refused to comply.
“Unfortunately, some residents have refused to comply, and the agency has no option but to enforce actions to reclaim public spaces and prevent building collapses
“The enforcement drive is expected to continue in other parts of the state, as the government intensifies efforts to sanitise the built environment to rid the metropolis of unapproved structures, prevent environmental degradation, and ensure the safety of its residents, “Oki added.
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[…] It is anticipated that a pilot phase will begin in a few regions of Lagos state. […]