Lagos State Begins Demolition Of Illegal Structures In Ikeja GRA.
The Lagos State Government launched a demolition exercise on Saturday, targeting illegal structures and unapproved buildings in Ikeja Government Reserved Area (GRA) to address security and urban planning concerns. The operation, spearheaded by Gbolahan Oki, Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LABCA), focused on shanties, unauthorised stalls, and buildings that violate planning regulations.
The enforcement team swept through key streets, including Michael Otedola, Sowemimo, Remi Fani-Kayode, and Ajisafe, dismantling structures that failed to comply with approved plans. Speaking to journalists, Oki explained that while some property owners held valid building approvals, many had breached terms by making unauthorised modifications. “Some people get approval for four flats but turn them into eight, or they have approval to build a duplex but convert it,” he said. Such actions, he noted, strain public infrastructure and disrupt the urban plan of Ikeja GRA.
Oki highlighted that the exercise followed complaints from residents about irregular construction practices. “We began enforcement at 9.00 a.m. today and visited many construction sites. Most of them actually have valid approvals, and even the buildings assumed not to conform often meet required standards,” he clarified. However, he stressed the importance of maintaining order, stating, “We can’t let Ikeja GRA become like Ajegunle.”
The demolition marks a renewed effort by the Lagos State Government to enforce building regulations and preserve the planned aesthetics and functionality of Ikeja GRA. Authorities have urged property owners to adhere to approved plans to avoid future interventions.
