…warns developers to regularise by year-end
By Sodiq Adelakun
The Lagos State Government has sealed more than 10 buildings in Victory Estate, Ejigbo, for failing to comply with state building codes and regulations, following an enforcement operation carried out by the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA).
The crackdown, which took place on Sunday, targeted buildings that had been constructed without the necessary approvals from the state government.
In a statement issued by the agency, the General Manager of LASBCA, Arc. Gbolahan Oki, explained that many of the buildings in the area lacked approved building plans, a direct violation of Lagos State’s stringent construction guidelines.
Oki noted that despite multiple contravention notices being sent to developers, there had been a blatant disregard for the regulations.
“Most of the building owners and developers in Victory Estate do not have building plan approvals from the State Government, which clearly violates our building codes and regulations. This enforcement action is necessary to ensure that we uphold the integrity of our built environment,” Oki said.
Oki further stressed that LASBCA had made repeated efforts to address the issue through dialogue and warning notices, but had been met with non-compliance. In light of this, he called on affected property owners to take advantage of the ongoing Lagos State Government’s Amnesty Programme, which offers a grace period to regularise building documentation without facing penalties.
“The Amnesty Programme, facilitated by the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA), provides a chance for developers to correct their documentation issues by December 31, 2024. Failure to comply within this timeframe will result in stricter enforcement measures, including the sealing of properties and legal actions,” he added.
Oki reiterated the Lagos State Government’s zero-tolerance policy for illegal constructions and emphasised that the ongoing enforcement was part of the government’s broader commitment to maintaining safety in the built environment.
“Bringing sanity to the built environment is paramount. We will not condone illegality, and those who flout the laws will face the full wrath of the law,” Oki warned.
He further reassured residents that the government is dedicated to protecting lives and properties by ensuring that all buildings adhere to safety standards.