Lagos State Government Initiates Demolition of Unauthorized Constructions
In an unprecedented move, the Lagos State government has commenced the removal of unauthorized constructions encroaching on the setbacks of the Mojisola Onikoyi Shoreline Estate, Parkview Estate, and Banana Island collector drain in the Ikoyi district. Following the expiration of a contravention notice, numerous buildings built within the specified areas are now facing demolition.
According to Tokunbo Wahab, the Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, the removal of these structures is crucial to facilitate necessary cleaning and maintenance access to the collector drain. It was discovered during an inspection that a significant number of buildings did not maintain the standard 3-meter setback from the drainage channel. However, the government moderated its demand to a 2.5-meter space.
Demolition Notice and Building Compliance
The Lagos State government served the contravention notice to property owners whose properties fall within the required setbacks for the channel. Wahab warned that non-compliant structures would face demolition and urged property owners to voluntarily dismantle any encroachments before the deadline.
This action is part of a broader initiative to address safety concerns posed by illegal structures. Recently, the Federal Housing Authority (FHA) dismissed claims of political motivation in a demolition exercise in FESTAC Town Phase II, Lagos, which resulted in the demolition of over 677 houses and partial demolition of 744 others. The agency stated that this decision was necessary due to severe building contravention, including false or incomplete documentation and inappropriate building locations.
The Lagos State Government has demonstrated a commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of the community, and it is clear that this recent action is a part of that continuous responsibility.
