The Lagos State Government has ordered the closure of numerous buildings under construction on Lagos Island due to non-compliance with planning permit regulations.
This enforcement action, undertaken on Friday, formed a crucial component of the state’s sustained efforts to counteract illegal development activities and guarantee compliance with established physical planning regulations.
The government announced this on its official Facebook page in a statement released on Saturday.
The operation, led by Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, focused on properties that disregarded a recent amnesty period. This program allowed property owners to rectify any planning permit irregularities without immediate repercussions, but these properties failed to comply.
The amnesty period for building owners and developers in Lagos State to regularize their properties without penalties initially began on May 2, 2024, and was set to conclude on July 30, 2024.
Recognizing the need for a longer timeframe, the state government extended the amnesty period twice. First, it was extended to October 31, 2024, and then further extended to December 31, 2024, providing ample opportunity for property owners to comply with planning regulations.
“The Lagos State Government on Friday reaffirmed its firm stance against illegal building constructions as it sealed multiple buildings being constructed without planning permits in Lagos Island,” the statement partly read.
Dr. Olumide further quote: “The amnesty programme provided an opportunity for property owners to regularise their building permits without facing immediate penalties.
“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.”
Commissioner Olumide categorized the government’s commitment to enforcing urban planning laws and prioritizing resident safety.
He highlighted the significant risks associated with unregulated development, including structural failures, environmental damage, and disruptions to the city’s planned layout.
The statement detailed the specific locations targeted during the enforcement drive on Lagos Island. Notable properties sealed included those at No. 7 Okesuna Street, 42/64 Okepopo Street, 11/15 Sunmonu Street, 22 Olushi Street, and 8 Isale Gangan Street.
Additionally, numerous properties on Oroyinyin, Faji, and Omididun streets were also affected.
Dr. Olumide underscored the critical importance of complying with urban planning regulations. He urged property developers and residents to prioritize obtaining the necessary approvals before initiating any construction projects.
Furthermore, he encouraged owners of adjacent plots of land to consider land-pooling as a strategy for creating more livable, well-organized, and sustainable urban communities.
This enforcement action, which will be expanded to other areas of the state, was carried out in collaboration with the Permanent Secretary of the Office of Physical Planning, Engr. Olumide Sotire, along with directors from the ministry and officials from the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA).
This proactive enforcement action underscores the Lagos State Government’s commitment to fostering a safe and orderly urban environment while emphasizing the paramount importance of adhering to planning regulations.
