In a continued effort to enforce urban planning regulations and maintain the safety and orderliness of the city, the Lagos State Government has sealed multiple buildings in Lagos Island that were being constructed without the necessary planning permits. This move is part of the ongoing clampdown on building developers who fail to comply with established construction regulations.
Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, led the operation, reaffirming the government’s commitment to upholding planning laws and ensuring that the city remains safe, sustainable, and well-ordered. The buildings sealed for lacking proper permits include properties located at Number 7 Okesuna Street, 42/64 Okepopo Street, 11/15 Sunmonu Street, 22 Olushi Street, and 8 Isalegangan Street. In addition, other properties across Oroyinyin, Faji, and Omididun Streets were also sealed.
Olumide pointed out that the government had previously granted an amnesty period that allowed property owners to regularize their building permits without facing penalties. Unfortunately, many developers ignored this opportunity, continuing with illegal construction activities that disregard important structural, environmental, and safety standards. Olumide expressed the importance of compliance, stating, “Our goal is to encourage compliance, ensuring that Lagos remains a safe and orderly city for all residents.”
The commissioner explained that the crackdown would extend to other parts of the state to maintain widespread adherence to urban planning laws. He emphasized the significant risks posed by unregulated development, including potential structural collapses, environmental degradation, and disruptions to the city’s planned infrastructure. A particular concern was the construction of buildings on narrow strips of land, which do not allow for proper setbacks or air spaces, as seen with the ongoing project at number 8, Isalegangan Street.
In his remarks, Olumide urged residents, property owners, and developers to take their civic duty seriously by securing the necessary approvals before starting any building projects. He also encouraged owners of smaller land parcels to consider land-pooling options to create more organized, livable, and sustainable environments.
In addition to the commissioner, other key officials who participated in the exercise included Engr. Olumide Sotire, the Permanent Secretary of the Office of Physical Planning, as well as directors from the ministry and top officials from the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA). The officials stressed the importance of whistleblowing on illegal constructions, encouraging residents to report violations early to help sustain the state’s development agenda and promote a safer built environment for all.
