The Ogun State Government has issued a seven-day quit notice to the management of the Ibara Housing Estate Mosque in Abeokuta, warning that the over 25-year-old structure may be demolished.
The notice, dated November 5, 2025, was signed by the General Manager of the Ogun State Planning and Development Permit Authority and directed the mosque community to vacate the premises within one week. It also stated that the government would not be responsible for any loss or damage during the demolition.
Part of the notice read: “You are hereby informed to vacate the property within seven days from the date of service of this notice. Remove all valuables within the specified time. The Authority will not be liable for any claim or compensation for properties damaged or destroyed during the demolition.”
Officials reportedly served the notice shortly after the Zuhr (noon) prayers, which caused concern among worshippers who described the action as sudden and unfair.
Findings showed that the mosque had not previously received any formal warning or contravention notice. However, a separate document titled “Notice of Contravention,” signed by the same General Manager, was also delivered on the same day.
The contravention notice alleged that the mosque had changed its use from residential to public worship and had carried out development without official approval. It ordered the management to submit all relevant planning documents, including development permits, within 24 hours or restore the property to its original residential purpose within seven days.
The authority cited violations of the Urban and Regional Planning and Development Law No. 61 of 2022, warning that failure to comply would result in demolition after due process.
Members of the mosque community have appealed to the government to reconsider the decision and engage in dialogue to resolve the matter peacefully.
