Lagos to demolish unapproved buildings after amnesty period

The Lagos State Government has reiterated its commitment to demolishing unapproved buildings after the expiration of a 90-day amnesty period.

This decision was made to ensure compliance with building regulations and reduce the risk of building collapses in the state.

Mr Olaoye Olusegun, of the Public Affairs Unit, Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) said this yesterday in Lagos.

Olaoye was quoting the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on e-GIS and Urban Development, Dr Olajide Babatunde, who said this at a workshop on Tuesday in Ikeja.

The Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) organised a workshop on “Understanding Building Control in Lagos State” to address misconceptions about the agency’s activities and the importance of certifications and insurance in the built industry.

The workshop aimed to educate building owners on the need for proper approvals and certifications before occupying a building.

Babatunde, emphasised the importance of having a Certificate of Completion and Fitness for Habitation, which is renewable every five years. He also stressed that no building should be occupied without this certificate, and that attachments to buildings, which hinder rescue operations during emergencies, are not allowed.

The General Manager of LASBCA, Mr. Gbolahan Oki, emphasized the importance of the workshop in clearing grey areas on the operations of LASBCA and how to obtain necessary certifications, calling on building owners in the state to do the right thing, saying it is cheaper to comply with regulations than to face the consequences of non-compliance.

Mr. Oki also advised developers to build according to specifications and the approval or permits given. He warned that at the expiration of the governor’s amnesty period, the agency would go all out to request for details such as certificates for fitness and habitation issued by the state.

According to him, the Lagos State Government’s decision to demolish unapproved buildings after the amnesty period is a significant step towards ensuring public safety and reducing the risk of building collapses in the state. The government’s efforts to educate building owners on the importance of proper approvals and certifications are crucial in preventing disasters and ensuring the well-being of citizens.