The Lagos State Government has reinforced its commitment to maintaining law and order in the building sector by sealing multiple buildings on Lagos Island for lacking proper planning permits.
Leading the enforcement exercise, the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Oluyinka Olumide, stressed the importance of compliance with physical planning laws.
He noted that the government had offered a generous amnesty programme for property owners to regularize their permits, but many ignored the initiative and continued illegal constructions that failed to meet safety and environmental standards.
“The amnesty programme provided an opportunity for property owners to regularize their building permits without facing immediate penalties.
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“Unfortunately, many disregarded this initiative while it lasted and proceeded with illegal constructions that failed to meet structural, environmental, and safety standards. Our goal is to encourage compliance, ensuring that Lagos remains a safe and orderly city for all residents,” Olumide stated.
The enforcement exercise targeted buildings at various locations, including No. 7 Okesuna Street, 42/64 Okepopo Street, 11/15 Sunmonu Street, 22 Olushi Street, and 8 Isale Gangan Street, as well as properties on Oroyinyin, Faji, and Omididun Streets.
Olumide expressed concern over the growing trend of illegal constructions on Lagos Island, particularly on narrow plots that lack proper setbacks and air spaces.
He ordered an immediate halt to ongoing construction at No. 8 Isale Gangan Street due to the site’s inadequate dimensions.
He urged property owners and developers to fulfil their civic responsibility by obtaining necessary permits before commencing construction.
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He also encouraged owners of small adjoining land parcels to consider land-pooling options for better urban planning and a sustainable environment.
The Commissioner further called on residents to report illegal constructions, emphasising the role of public participation in helping the government identify and address violations at an early stage to ensure a safe and organised Lagos.
The exercise, which will be extended to other parts of the state, was carried out in the presence of the Permanent Secretary, Office of Physical Planning, Engr. Olumide Sotire, along with ministry directors and officials from the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA).
