The Lagos State Government has banned illegal occupation of abandoned buildings and buildings under construction in the state.
The state’s Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Idris Salako, announced this in a statement on Friday, saying that it was part of measures to prevent the state from being plunged into crisis, following the wanton destruction of lives and property across the country. The commissioner, who revealed that his ministry would invoke the powers vested by Section 73 of the Lagos State Urban and Regional Planning and Development Law 2019 as amended, in order to ensure the safety and security of all parts of the state.
He warned that owners and developers that flout the directive within 30 days, would be sanctioned. The commissioner said the step was being taken in order to forestall possible outbreak of violence due to the rising insecurity in the country.
“Lagos State Government has observed with dismay the security challenges in the Nation at large and clearly understands the danger posed by the likely spread of this ugly situation in our dear state,” Salako said. He observed that some undesirable elements mostly, foreigners from neighbouring countries had continued to convert abandoned buildings and building construction sites to their haven and launch pad to commit acts that are inimical to the safety of the state and residents. The commissioner had words of advice for the public, urging them to “abide with certain conditions, such as the obligation of Owners/Developers of any uncompleted or existing building by ensuring that the property is in proper environmental, safe and sanitation conditions; no construction worker must remain within the premises of buildings undergoing construction beyond 6.00 pm daily.” Salako, therefore, warned property owners and developers to heed the stated conditions in their own interest as any defaulting owners would have such building sealed off and further actions are taken where necessary. “However, the government is committed to ensuring livability, the safety of lives and properties as well as security of residents and citizens in the state,” he said.
