Lagos State Government demolishes illegal and unsafe structures at Trade Fair Complex, Ojo, enforcing planning laws to protect infrastructure and safety

The Lagos State Government demolishes unauthorized structures in a decisive move to restore order and enforce physical planning regulations at the Trade Fair Complex in Ojo.

Also read: Lagos Government Defends Oworonshoki Demolition, Targets Makoko

The operation, confirmed on Thursday by Jubril Gawat, Senior Special Assistant on New Media to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, targeted unapproved developments, defective buildings, and structures obstructing road setbacks and drainage channels.

Authorities from the Ministry of Physical Planning, Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), Lagos State Urban Renewal Agency, and the Physical Planning Permit Authority jointly conducted the demolition exercise.

The Lagos State House of Assembly and security agencies provided crucial support.

Bulldozers were deployed to remove marked illegal structures while some traders and shop owners expressed concerns about the impact on their businesses.

The government’s firm stance comes amid growing frustration over unregulated developments that block vital infrastructure, worsen flooding, and cause traffic congestion across Lagos.

Gawat emphasised, “The Lagos State Government can no longer fold its arms while unapproved developments block critical infrastructure and endanger lives.”

This operation follows the recent expiry of an amnesty programme that allowed owners of illegal or irregular buildings to regularise their properties without penalty.

With the window now closed, enforcement activities have intensified in key areas across the state.

Previous demolition exercises have occasionally drawn backlash from displaced residents citing inadequate notice and loss of property.

Also read: Lagos Government Defends Oworonshoki Demolition, Targets Makoko

Lagos officials, however, maintain that these actions are essential to safeguard urban order, public safety, and the city’s resilience against flooding and congestion.