The Lagos State Government has begun a massive demolition drive in Ikeja Government Reserved Area (GRA), targeting illegal structures and unauthorized building conversions.
According to Punch News, the enforcement operation, led by Gbolahan Oki, Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), focused on buildings altered beyond approved plans.
Oki revealed that some property owners had converted four-flat buildings into eight or turned duplexes into multiple units without authorization.
“We can’t let Ikeja GRA become like Ajegunle,” Oki warned, emphasizing that such illegal modifications strain infrastructure and violate urban planning laws. The demolition team moved through key streets, including Michael Otedola, Sowemimo, Remi Fani-Kayode, and Ajisafe, marking non-compliant structures for demolition.
LASBCA had earlier issued verification notices to property owners, allowing time for compliance before enforcement. Oki stressed that illegal constructions worsen security risks and hinder surveillance efforts.
This crackdown follows an April warning that illegal structures statewide would face demolition. The government aims to restore order, prevent building collapses, and uphold proper urban planning.