The Lagos State Government has made it clear that individuals who engage in construction activities without obtaining the required permits will face prosecution for violating the law. In addition to legal consequences, any structures built without proper approval will be demolished.
The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Oluyinka Olumide, issued this warning during a routine inspection of the Lekki/Ajah corridor on Wednesday. During the inspection, Olumide ordered the sealing and partial removal of several illegally constructed buildings in different locations along the corridor. He also sternly warned owners and developers of buildings situated under power lines to evacuate their premises within two weeks.
Olumide emphasized that no structures are permitted to be built under power lines, which are designated solely for the open display of goods and services. Expressing his dismay at the widespread disregard for physical planning laws in the state, he emphasized that the law would be applied without bias to ensure the creation of a livable and sustainable environment.
He urged property owners and developers to secure the necessary planning permits before commencing construction and to adhere to the conditions outlined in their approvals, in order to avoid legal consequences. Olumide also commented on the Ministry of Environment and Water Resources’ clearing of structures on drainage alignments in Ikota Villa Estate. He stressed the critical importance of obtaining and complying with planning permits, as they are crucial for environmental sustainability and national security.
