Lagos Begins Demolition of Illegal Buildings in Ikate Elegushi and Lekki–Ikoyi Areas

The Lagos State Government has commenced the demolition of unauthorized buildings in the Ikate Elegushi and Lekki–Ikoyi corridors as part of ongoing efforts to enforce building regulations and restore order to the state’s physical environment.

The operation, led by the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), was carried out in collaboration with the Lagos State House of Assembly and the Office of Urban Development. Authorities targeted structures that violated planning laws, encroached on drainage channels, exceeded approved height levels, or posed safety risks.

Chairman of the House Committee on Physical Development, Hon. Sylvester Ogunkelu, said the Assembly fully supports the statewide cleanup, stressing that strict adherence to building regulations is crucial in a densely populated state like Lagos. He warned that unregulated construction endangers lives and places undue pressure on public infrastructure.

The Permanent Secretary of the Office of Urban Development, Arc. Gbolahan Owodunni Oki, also cautioned that illegal construction threatens environmental sustainability and complicates urban planning. He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to backing LASBCA’s enforcement efforts.

Acting General Manager of LASBCA, Bldr. Gbaye Florence, revealed that affected structures had been served multiple notices, including stop-work orders and demolition notices, but their owners refused to comply. She emphasized that the agency will no longer condone violations of building laws, noting that unapproved constructions often lack structural integrity and pose serious risks.

Following the Ikate operation, the enforcement team moved to the Lekki–Ikoyi axis, where more illegal buildings were identified. Some structures located directly beneath high-tension power lines were marked for demolition due to the severe danger they pose to residents and the public.

Officials issued fresh warnings to developers and homeowners, reminding them that the government will not tolerate hazardous or unapproved developments. They also held sensitization sessions with residents, stressing the legal consequences of ignoring building regulations.

Hon. Ogunkelu restated the Assembly’s commitment to supporting enforcement agencies, adding that the government will “do its utmost best” to reclaim lands illegally taken by land grabbers.

The state government urged landlords, developers, and prospective property buyers to obtain proper approvals before beginning any construction, warning that ignorance of the law will not be accepted as an excuse.