The Lagos State Government has issued a 30-day quit notice to owners and occupants of buildings converted illegally into churches, mosques, clubs, bars, and lounges without appropriate change-of-use approval. The General Manager of the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), Arc. Gbolahan Owodunni Oki, made this announcement, emphasizing the need to revert these buildings to their original residential purposes.
This crackdown comes in response to the disruption of Lagos’s masterplan, particularly in residential areas, where the unauthorized transformation of properties has created environmental nuisances and heightened security concerns. The impetus for this action is also rooted in numerous complaints from residents about safety and adherence to security guidelines, which have largely been ignored by the operators of these establishments.
Oki highlighted that the LASBCA had previously identified and notified the owners of these illegal structures, but their lack of compliance has necessitated this final notice. He warned that post the 30-day deadline, starting from January 29, any non-complying building will be removed at the owner’s expense. This move is part of a broader effort to ensure Lagos aligns with its vision of being an exemplary African mega city, as advocated by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. The elderly, particularly in areas like Lekki and its surroundings, have been vocal in their support for this initiative, citing the adverse effects of these unauthorized conversions on their health and security.