Lagos Demolishes Illegal Structures in Ikeja GRA to Restore Order and Security
The Lagos State Government has taken decisive action to address the growing issue of illegal structures and shanties in Ikeja Government Reserved Area (GRA). On Saturday, officials from the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), led by Permanent Secretary Mr. Gbolahan Oki, began demolishing unauthorized buildings that had become a source of concern for both residents and city planners.
### Targeting a Worsening Problem
The exercise, which began early in the morning, focused on key streets such as Michael Otedola, Sowemimo, Remi Fani-Kayode, and Ajisafe. There, the demolition team pulled down makeshift stalls, wooden shacks, and other non-conforming structures. According to Oki, these illegal developments posed both security and infrastructural threats to the upscale neighborhood.
“There have been complaints from the residents of Ikeja GRA about abnormalities in the construction process,” Oki said. “We visited many construction sites. Most of them actually have valid approvals, and even the buildings assumed not to conform do, in fact, meet the required standards.”
However, the deeper issue, he explained, is not about approvals but illegal alterations. “Some people get approval for four flats but turn them into eight. Others are approved to build a duplex but convert it to something else entirely. This puts pressure on roads, power supply, drainage, and other infrastructure,” he added.
Residents Welcome the Cleanup
Many residents in Ikeja GRA expressed relief and support for the government’s action. Over the past few years, the once serene and orderly neighborhood had witnessed a disturbing rise in unauthorized developments, making the area increasingly unsafe and unrecognizable.
Community leader Mr. Tunde Disu called the initiative a “timely intervention.” According to him, the illegal structures not only compromised urban planning but also created “security black spots” where stolen goods were allegedly stored and sold.
“Our private security team and the police are on constant patrol,” Disu said. “But we need the environment to support their work. Clearing these shanties is a big win.”
Government Maintains Due Process
Mr. Oki emphasized that this was not a hasty operation. Property owners were given several months’ notice and asked to submit their building approvals for verification. The move, he said, is part of a larger effort to restore order, not a personal attack on residents.
“This is not a witch hunt. It is about safety, planning, and the rule of law,” he stressed. “We are targeting shanties, illegal conversions, and spaces being used for unlawful activity.”
Oki also warned that any building found not to comply with city planning standards would be marked for correction. If the owners fail to make the necessary changes, those buildings would be demolished.
Holding Offenders Accountable
As part of the ongoing effort to maintain order, the residents’ association has pledged to work with state agencies like the Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) for post-demolition cleanup. They also intend to identify and hold accountable those responsible for the illegal developments.
“Some of these properties are in dispute, but we will follow up and ensure that the right things are done,” Disu said. “We cannot allow this neighborhood to fall into chaos.”
### Urban Order Must Be Preserved
Lagos, like many rapidly growing cities, faces the dual challenge of accommodating its population while preserving urban order. Enforcement drives like this help reinforce the message that unauthorized development will not be tolerated, even in high-end areas.
By taking action now, the state government hopes to avoid the kind of planning failure that has plagued other parts of the city. As Oki bluntly put it, “We can’t let Ikeja GRA become like Ajegunle.”
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