In an ongoing effort to crack down on illegal construction and ensure adherence to building codes, the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) has apprehended seven individuals in Eti-Osa and Ikoyi areas of Lagos State.
The arrested persons, including site engineers and other professionals, were brought before the Lagos State Mobile Court for questioning and fair hearings.
The General Manager of LASBCA, Arc. Gbolahan Oki, addressed the media following the enforcement exercise. He stated that the aim of these actions was to curb the prevalence of illegal practices in the construction industry and prevent potential building collapses.
Oki expressed his concern over the disregard shown by individuals towards government agencies responsible for issuing permits and overseeing building activities. He highlighted instances where LASBCA officials had been harassed while performing their official duties.
The sealed construction sites will remain closed until proper procedures are followed, and the necessary approvals are obtained from relevant government agencies. To ensure prompt and fair hearings for those found in violation of building regulations, LASBCA has adopted the use of mobile courts as a new strategy.
Oki explained that this approach was implemented due to the persistent breaking of government seals on properties and the disregard for stop-work orders issued by LASBCA on illegal constructions.
Furthermore, Oki affirmed that the State Government would not only prosecute the violators but also publicly disclose their names in national newspapers. He assured that these enforcement efforts would continue and expand to other divisions and local government areas within the state.
Specifically addressing the construction activities in the Eti-Osa area, the General Manager emphasized the need to monitor and regulate the works carried out by developers and property owners. This is to ensure compliance with the government’s proposed plans for the area and prevent any violations.
Oki urged the public and professionals in the construction industry to act as whistleblowers for LASBCA, assisting in the agency’s pursuit of full compliance with physical planning laws and building codes.
Mr. Olusoji Olaopa, the Director of Enforcement at LASBCA, added that consistent enforcement activities conducted by the agency would significantly reduce illegal practices in the construction sector through early detection.
He called upon professionals in the industry to diligently obtain all necessary permits and documents as required by the law before commencing any construction projects.
The enforcement exercise covered several areas, including Modupe Adebayo Street, off Pinewood Crescent, Elegushi Property Scheme, Ilasan Road, Beside Haven Homes, Elegushi, Richmond Pearl Road, Beside Haven Homes, Elegushi Property Development Scheme, and Babalola Garden, off Olu-Babajide Close, Lekki-phase 1, all within the Eti-Osa Local Government Area.
Additionally, another property located at Awolowo Way, Ikoyi, was also inspected and subject to enforcement measures by LASBCA.
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