Lagos state government begins demolition of illegal structures in Ikeja GRA

The Lagos State Government on Saturday commenced the demolition of illegal structures, shanties, and unapproved buildings in Ikeja Government Reserved Area (GRA), citing mounting security threats and violations of urban planning regulations.

The exercise, spearheaded by the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), Gbolahan Oki, targeted areas known for regulatory breaches, including Michael Otedola, Sowemimo, Remi Fani-Kayode, and Ajisafe Streets.

During the operation, LASBCA officials pulled down makeshift stalls and altered structures that had either been constructed without approval or illegally modified beyond the approved scope.

Speaking to journalists, Oki revealed that while some property owners possessed valid building approvals, many had flouted regulations by significantly altering the approved designs, such as converting four approved flats into eight, thereby placing unsustainable pressure on infrastructure and distorting the master plan of the area.

“There have been complaints from the residents of Ikeja GRA about abnormalities in the construction process,” he said. “Some people get approval for four flats but turn them into eight, or they have approval to build a duplex but they convert it. This puts a heavy burden on public infrastructure. We can’t let Ikeja GRA become like Ajegunle.”

Oki emphasised that the demolition followed due process. He noted that LASBCA had earlier issued letters to all property owners within Ikeja GRA, requesting the submission of building approvals for verification.

“The enforcement exercise followed adequate notice and engagement with stakeholders, and is aimed at removing shanties, makeshift stalls, and unauthorised structures linked to illegal activities in order to restore safety, order, and proper urban planning,” he stated.

He explained that buildings found to violate planning regulations were marked for corrective action, and owners who failed to comply were subject to demolition.

Oki stressed that the spread of illegal developments had heightened security risks and compromised the effectiveness of both private and government security surveillance in the area.

In April, the LASBCA boss had warned property developers across Lagos to strictly adhere to building codes or face similar enforcement actions. He lamented that despite several warnings, some residents had continued to flout the rules.

“Unfortunately, some residents have refused to comply, and the agency has no option but to enforce actions to reclaim public spaces and prevent building collapses,” he said.

He added that the demolition drive would extend to other parts of Lagos State as part of a broader government effort to sanitise the built environment, prevent environmental degradation, and enhance the safety and livability of urban communities.