The Lagos State Government has assured that property owners whose buildings are demolished during road construction will be adequately compensated but only if they obtained valid planning permits.
The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, gave the assurance during a public sensitisation programme organised by the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA) to educate stakeholders on the importance of obtaining planning permits.
Olumide explained that many buildings currently sited on the right of way would have to give way for upcoming road projects, stressing that such losses could be avoided through proper compliance.
“If any building sited on the right of way had obtained a planning permit, the owners would be adequately compensated,” he said.
No Arbitrary Demolitions
The commissioner also urged residents, Community Development Associations (CDAs), and Community Development Committees (CDCs) in Ojo, Badagry, Iba/Oto-Awori, Amuwo, Oriade, and Olorunda districts to regularise their property documentation. He reassured that there would be no arbitrary demolitions at the Trade Fair Complex and emphasised government’s commitment to orderly and sustainable urban development.
LASPPPA Encourages Public Engagement
The General Manager of LASPPPA, Kehinde Osinailke, reaffirmed the agency’s openness to the public and encouraged developers and professionals to seek guidance directly from LASPPPA.
“Our office doors are open to everyone. We are here to enlighten, support, and work with you to ensure compliance and promote a well-organised Lagos,” he said.
A Director in LASPPPA, Claudius Akinyemi, highlighted that planning permits can now be processed online for faster approvals. She noted that a valid permit not only legalises development but can serve as collateral for bank loans, and guarantees compensation if government projects affect the property.
Stakeholders React
During the interactive session, the President-General of Alaba International Amalgamated Council, High Chief (Dr.) Camilus Amajuoyi, pledged that traders and developers at the Alaba Trade Fair would now comply with planning regulations. Another stakeholder, High Chief Taofeek Oseni, called for a review of long-standing buildings constructed on government-acquired land without proper documentation.
Background
In September, the Lagos State Government began demolishing illegal and defective structures at the Trade Fair Complex in Ojo. The operation targeted buildings erected without approval, on drainage channels, or within road setbacks. Agencies involved included LASBCA, LASURA, LASPPPA, and the Ministry of Physical Planning, among others.
The state has maintained that demolitions carried out without official authorisation or due process do not represent its position, referencing recent unapproved demolitions in FESTAC Town.
