Lagos bans occupation of uncompleted buildings, gives owners ultimatum

Idris Salako, Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, announced the order in a statement on Friday.

Salako said the authorities clearly understands the danger posed by the likely spread of the “ugly situation” in Nigeria.

He lamented how social miscreants continued to convert abandoned buildings and project sites to their bases, from where they attack residents.

The ministry invoked its powers, under Section 73 of the Lagos State Urban and Regional Planning and Development Law 2019 (as amended).

Salako told owners and developers of uncompleted or existing buildings to always ensure their properties were in proper environmental conditions.

“No abandoned building will be allowed, for security and safety reason”, the commissioner stressed.

Also, no construction worker should stay back beyond 6:00p.m. within premises of buildings undergoing construction.

Lagos warned property owners and developers to comply within 30 days or risk the seal of their buildings, among further actions.