Ogun shuts 10 buildings for violating state’s laws

By Adejoke Adeleye

The Ogun State Government has shuts 10 buildings in Ilaro and Abeokuta areas of the state for violating the state’s building regulation laws.

The government also issues notices to commercial building owners for violating the laws of the state.

Acting General Manager, Building Production and Management Authority (OGBPMA), Engr Olakunle Olaniran, who spoke with newsmen during the monitoring and enforcement exercise, revealed that the sealed buildings in the Ibara, Adatan, Abiola-Way, and Ita-Eko areas of Abeokuta were sanctioned due to contravention of Planning Permit, building without authorisation, non-certification of the building process, lack of professional guidance and use of poor building materials.

He said, “One of the buildings sealed in Abeokuta obtained a permit for a storey residential development, but commenced a development of four-storey building which shows intent for commercial use. These acts are inimical to proper planning, as the specifications for commercial use must factor key requirements like parking spaces, among other things. Attempting such sharp practices will not be condoned in the State.”

Buildings sealed in Ilaro are two filling stations, two commercial buildings and one hotel. He said they were sealed as a result of illegal and haphazard developments in the communities despite the agency’s enlightenment and sensitisation campaign on the need to build right and obtain necessary building approvals

Olaniran warned that the agency would not rest on its oars at ensuring that building and construction works were done in line with the extant laws of the State.

He, however, harped on the need to build in compliance with approvals granted, under the supervision of necessary professionals in the building sector, noting that due diligence should be observed at all times.