The Lagos State Government reaffirmed its commitment to combating illegal building constructions on Friday.
Officials sealed multiple buildings being constructed without planning permits in Lagos Island, emphasizing the importance of adherence to physical planning laws.
Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, led the operation.
He stressed the need for a positive attitude towards compliance, especially after months of amnesty for property owners without permits.
“The amnesty program allowed property owners to regularize their permits without facing penalties,” Olumide stated.
“Unfortunately, many ignored this opportunity and continued illegal constructions that fail to meet safety standards.
Our goal is to ensure Lagos remains a safe and orderly city.”
Furthermore, Olumide noted that the enforcement exercise would expand to other areas of the state.
He highlighted that unregulated developments pose significant risks, including structural collapse and environmental degradation, disrupting planned city layouts.
The sealed properties included No. 7 Okesuna Street, 42/64 Okepopo Street, and 11/15 Sunmonu Street, among others.
The government is determined to uphold planning regulations and address illegal constructions throughout Lagos.
Olumide expressed concern over illegal buildings on narrow strips of land, particularly at number 8, Isalegangan Street.
He ordered the immediate stoppage of ongoing construction due to insufficient space for setbacks and air circulation.
He reminded residents and developers of their civic duty to obtain necessary approvals before construction begins.
Additionally, he urged owners of smaller parcels of land to consider land-pooling options for better urban planning.
Moreover, Olumide emphasized the importance of community involvement in reporting illegal constructions.
He encouraged residents to provide information that would help the government address planning violations early, thus supporting Lagos’s development agenda.
Present during the enforcement exercise were Engr. Olumide Sotire, the Permanent Secretary of the Office of Physical Planning, along with various directors and officials from the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA).
The government remains dedicated to maintaining a sustainable and organized built environment in Lagos.