Lagos Govt Seals Multiple Buildings for Lack of Planning Permits

In an ongoing effort to enforce compliance with physical planning regulations, the Lagos State Government has sealed several buildings in Lagos Island for being constructed without the necessary planning permits.

The operation, led by the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, targeted properties at locations including 7 Okesuna Street, 42/64 Okepopo Street, 11/15 Sunmonu Street, 22 Olushi Street, and 8 Isalegangan Street.

Other affected streets were Oroyinyin, Faji, and Omididun.

Dr. Olumide reaffirmed the government’s commitment to clamping down on illegal constructions and ensuring a safe and orderly urban environment.

Speaking during the exercise, he said, “The amnesty program provided an opportunity for property owners to regularise their building permits without facing immediate penalties.

Unfortunately, many disregarded this initiative and proceeded with illegal constructions that fail to meet structural, environmental, and safety standards.”

He emphasized the dangers posed by unregulated developments, such as structural collapses, environmental degradation, and disruptions to city planning.

“Our goal is to encourage compliance, ensuring that Lagos remains a safe and orderly city for all residents,” he stated.

The commissioner particularly decried the rise of illegal constructions on Lagos Island, noting that some developers build on narrow plots of land, leaving no space for setbacks or air circulation.

He ordered the immediate stoppage of construction at 8 Isalegangan Street due to the site’s inadequacy.

Dr. Olumide called on residents, property owners, and developers to fulfill their civic duty by obtaining approvals before embarking on construction projects.

He also urged owners of small, adjoining parcels of land to consider land-pooling options to promote organized and sustainable urban development.

The commissioner encouraged whistleblowing on illegal constructions, saying, “Residents should provide information to help the government detect physical planning contraventions early and act promptly in the interest of all.”

The enforcement team included the Permanent Secretary for Physical Planning, Engr. Olumide Sotire, directors in the ministry, and senior officials from the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA).

The government pledged to extend the operation to other parts of Lagos State to ensure full compliance with planning laws and safeguard the built environment.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.