The Lagos State Government has issued a stern warning to owners of 280 illegal structures in the state, threatening imminent demolition if the encroachments are not promptly addressed. This follows a series of investigations revealing that these buildings, scattered across the state, were constructed without necessary permits, violating urban planning and environmental laws.
In a statement released by the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), the government expressed its commitment to tackling unauthorized developments, especially those that pose a threat to public safety. The agency highlighted that many of these structures were built on land reserved for public infrastructure or zoned for different purposes, leading to encroachment on waterways, green spaces, and public land.
The LASBCA noted that the affected buildings were erected without proper documentation, including building permits, environmental impact assessments, or adherence to zoning regulations. This disregard for planning laws has raised concerns about the structural integrity of these properties, with fears that they may not meet safety standards.
“The Lagos State Government will not tolerate any illegal developments that compromise the safety of residents and the overall urban planning of the city. Property owners are urged to adhere to the state’s building laws and seek necessary approvals before construction,” the statement read.
The agency further noted that the identified structures also violate the physical planning guidelines, with many of them obstructing drainage systems, which exacerbates the city’s flooding issues during the rainy season. This has prompted the government to take decisive action to prevent future disasters.
The demolition threat is part of the Lagos State Government’s larger effort to curb urban sprawl, protect public infrastructure, and restore order to the state’s fast-growing urban landscape. The illegal occupation of public spaces, particularly in areas prone to flooding or designated for public use, has long been a concern for city planners.
“The encroachments hinder the proper development of the state and undermine efforts to provide essential public services, such as roads, drainage, and public parks,” an official from the Lagos Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development stated.
In addition to safety concerns, the government is also addressing the environmental impact of illegal structures, particularly those built on flood plains and other ecologically sensitive areas. The proliferation of these structures has resulted in the destruction of natural habitats and has contributed to increased flooding risks in various parts of the city.
The state government has given the affected property owners a grace period to rectify the situation by obtaining the necessary approvals or voluntarily demolishing the illegal structures. Failure to comply within the stipulated time will result in forcible demolition by LASBCA.
“We encourage property owners to come forward and regularize their building approvals where applicable. However, where structures pose a significant danger to public safety, no approval will be granted, and the state will proceed with demolition,” the LASBCA reiterated.
This is not the first time Lagos has taken decisive steps against illegal buildings. In previous years, the government has demolished hundreds of unauthorized structures, particularly in high-risk flood zones and areas designated for public projects. The government’s zero-tolerance policy towards illegal construction has been a key component of its urban renewal agenda.
While some critics argue that the government’s approach may displace low-income residents, officials maintain that these actions are necessary for the long-term sustainability of the city. In many cases, affected property owners are offered alternative solutions, such as relocation assistance or opportunities to regularize their properties.
As Lagos continues to grapple with rapid urbanization, the government’s focus on enforcing building codes and zoning laws is critical to ensuring that the city develops in a sustainable and organized manner. With the recent warning, it is clear that the Lagos State Government is prepared to take further action to protect public safety and urban order, even if it means demolishing hundreds of illegally constructed buildings.
Residents and property owners are urged to cooperate with the government’s directives to avoid the looming demolition and contribute to a more organized, safe, and sustainable Lagos.
