By Peter Omopo
The Lagos State Government, through the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), has demolished a cluster of shanties in the Ikeja Government Reserved Area (GRA) over concerns about their use for criminal activities.
The enforcement exercise, conducted over the weekend, was carried out in collaboration with the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA), Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI), the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), and the Ikeja GRA Residents Association.
In a statement released on Sunday, LASBCA’s Permanent Secretary, Gbolahan Oki, said the removal became imperative following complaints from residents about increased insecurity in the area.
“The agency received reports from residents indicating that many of the shanties were being used to conceal stolen goods and harbour miscreants,” Oki explained. “This posed a significant security threat to the community.”
Oki added that before the demolition, a series of consultative meetings were held with residents and property owners. Notices were also issued to developers and building owners, requesting them to present documentation to verify compliance with approved building regulations.
The state government reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining law and order, and ensuring a safe environment for all residents.
