The Lagos State Government has said it will not pay compensation to owners and occupants of illegal buildings and shanties recently demolished in areas like Iyana Oworo and along the Lekki coastline……CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
This comes as Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu prepares to launch a new agency that will take charge of reclaiming and putting to use over 3,000 hectares of abandoned or informal spaces across the state.
Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, made this known on Tuesday during the ministry’s first quarterly media briefing at Alausa, Ikeja.
Demolitions Spark Protests
Last weekend, residents of Ojulari Community in Oworosonki were displaced after their buildings—erected without government approval—were pulled down. The demolition, led by the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), came just days after officials warned about the dangers of uncontrolled sand dredging in Lagos, which they said threatens aquatic life and the stability of the lagoon.
On Monday, some of the displaced residents blocked the Third Mainland Bridge to protest the demolition, demanding compensation from the government.
But responding to their demands, Olumide stated clearly:
“There is no plan by the state government to compensate Oworosonki residents who were displaced in the demolition of illegal structures. However, the governor has the prerogative power to approve compensation.”
New Agency Coming
The commissioner revealed that Governor Sanwo-Olu will soon unveil an agency that will oversee the recovery and redevelopment of unused lands across Lagos. He said these spaces would be converted into facilities such as parking lots, gardens, and shopping centres in partnership with the private sector—part of efforts to “change the face of Lagos.”
Amnesty Extension for Property Owners
Meanwhile, the government has extended its amnesty period for owners of buildings without proper planning approval to December 31, 2024.
Originally slated to end in October, the extension will allow more property owners to regularize their buildings without paying penalties. The initiative, first introduced in May 2024 as a 90-day window, waives fines and even offers discounts for those who complete payments within 10 working days.
To benefit, applicants must provide documents such as proof of ownership, survey plans, architectural and structural drawings, tax compliance evidence, and integrity test reports where needed.
Olumide explained that the programme is designed to ease economic pressures on property owners while ensuring Lagos develops in an organized, sustainable, and livable way……CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
