The Lagos State Government has sealed two beaches and ordered a stop to construction on 180 buildings in the Okun-Ajah axis of Eti-Osa, citing persistent encroachment on state-owned waterfront land.
The enforcement action, carried out by the Ministry of Waterfront Infrastructure Development on Monday, follows repeated warnings and official summonses that were allegedly ignored by the affected property owners.
According to a statement issued by the ministry’s spokesperson, Akodu Morenikeji, the operation was led by the Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Dayo Alebiosu, who expressed disappointment over what he described as the deliberate defiance of land use regulations.
“This level of disregard for laid-down rules and property ownership cannot be tolerated,” Alebiosu said. “Despite multiple engagements and notices issued to the encroachers, they chose to proceed unlawfully, leaving the state with no alternative but to enforce compliance.”
The commissioner noted that over 40 individuals previously found to be in violation had been regularised through the issuance of E-Survey documents after meeting legal requirements. However, many others failed to comply.
More than 20 suspected violators were arrested during the operation and will face legal prosecution, the ministry stated.
The sealed beaches and affected properties are located on lands designated for critical infrastructure and environmental preservation. The state government emphasized that protecting its coastal assets is crucial to ensuring orderly and sustainable development.
“The ministry remains fully committed to safeguarding public assets and enforcing regulations that support responsible land use along our waterfronts,” Alebiosu added.
The action comes amid broader efforts by Lagos authorities to curb illegal developments, protect public infrastructure, and enhance safety in high-risk environmental zones.
