Demolition Tsunami hits Lagos, 349 properties demolished over safety, violations

The Lagos State Government has revealed that 349 properties were demolished across the state in 2023 as part of a rigorous urban enforcement drive targeting unsafe and non-compliant structures.

This was disclosed on Monday by the Special Adviser to the Governor on e-GIS and Urban Development, Dr Olajide Abiodun Babatunde, during the ongoing Ministerial Press Briefings in Alausa, Ikeja.

According to Babatunde, the demolitions were carried out by agencies such as the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) and the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development.

The affected structures were either illegally built, structurally defective, or in violation of approved development plans.

“They were brought down because they were distressed,” he said, noting that the integrity of the buildings posed significant risks to lives and properties in their surroundings.

Babatunde added that extensive media coverage accompanied many of the demolition operations, reflecting the government’s firm stance on compliance and public safety.

In the course of the year, he said, the agency uncovered 3,663 infractions by property owners across Lagos.

These included unauthorised developments, alterations to approved plans, structural failings, and blatant disregard for building safety protocols.

He stressed that the high number of violations highlights persistent issues in adherence to urban planning laws and a worrying disregard for regulatory standards among developers and homeowners.

“The data serves as a stark reminder of the need for full compliance with building codes and the importance of securing appropriate permits,” he said.

Babatunde reiterated the state’s commitment to promoting a safe, orderly, and sustainable built environment, warning that enforcement efforts will continue in full force throughout 2024.