The operation, spearheaded by Gbolahan Oki, Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), focused on properties that breached construction guidelines.
During the exercise, officials moved across streets such as Michael Otedola, Sowemimo, Remi Fani Kayode, and Ajisafe, dismantling unauthorized stalls and buildings that had been modified without approval.
Oki explained to journalists that while some property owners had obtained official approvals, they violated terms by altering their structures such as converting approved four flat buildings into eight flats placing undue pressure on infrastructure and disrupting the area’s development plan.
“There have been complaints from Ikeja GRA residents regarding irregularities in construction activities,” Oki stated. “We began enforcement around 9 a.m. today, inspecting multiple sites. Many properties had valid approvals, but some had made unauthorized changes despite compliance in other areas.”
He added, “People secure permits for four flats but expand them into eight, or they get approval for a duplex and later convert it for other uses. This overloads public utilities. We cannot let Ikeja GRA deteriorate into something similar to Ajegunle.”
According to Oki, LASBCA had previously issued notices to all property owners in Ikeja GRA, requesting that they submit their building approvals for review.
He emphasized that the enforcement followed sufficient notice and engagement with stakeholders, aiming to clear makeshift structures, shanties, and unauthorized buildings tied to illegal activities, in a bid to restore safety, order, and proper planning in the area.
Buildings identified as violating planning regulations were marked for corrective measures, with noncompliance resulting in demolition, he warned.
Oki also raised concerns that the proliferation of illegal structures was increasing security risks and obstructing effective monitoring by both private security firms and law enforcement.
Earlier in April, he had cautioned developers and property owners across Lagos to comply with building regulations to avoid facing similar enforcement actions elsewhere.
“Sadly, some residents have ignored compliance requests, leaving the agency no choice but to act to reclaim public spaces and avert building collapse incidents,” Oki said.
He concluded that the enforcement initiative would continue in other parts of Lagos, as the government steps up efforts to clean up the city’s built environment, eliminate unauthorized structures, prevent environmental degradation, and safeguard residents’ welfare.
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