Lagos issues final quit notice to illegal occupiers in Ikorodu, Surulere extensions

Lagos State Government on Tuesday issued a final quit notice to illegal occupants at the Agric Bus Stop area in Ikorodu and ordered the removal of illegal extensions in Surulere.

This action is part of the state government’s ongoing efforts to ensure urban regeneration and sustainable development and tackle environmental nuisances across the state, according to the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA).

LASBCA’s General Manager, Gbolahan Oki, explained that the quit notice aligns with the government’s T.H.E.M.E.S. Plus Development Agenda, which prioritises efficient urban planning and the creation of livable, orderly, and secure communities.

Oki noted the illegal structures and activities in the Agric area posed serious environmental and security risks, which the state government is determined to address.

He expressed dismay at the resistance encountered by the agency officials while performing their lawful duties and condemned the assault on LASBCA personnel during duty, warning that such acts would no longer be tolerated.

“Government officers are working to enforce regulations that ensure the safety and development of our environment. Assaulting them will not only delay progress but also attract serious legal consequences,” Oki said.

In addition to the operation in Ikorodu, Oki said its enforcement team carried out a routine monitoring and enforcement exercise along Akerele Road and its adjoining streets in the Surulere area of the state.

He noted that the exercise focused on ensuring compliance with urban planning regulations, particularly the removal of illegal shop extensions and shanties encroaching on public spaces.

During the operation, traders and property owners were directed to remove all illegal extensions and attachments blocking drainages, obstructing vehicular movement, and encroaching on government-designated setbacks.

“The indiscriminate construction of shop extensions on public infrastructure hinders accessibility, disrupts traffic flow, and poses a threat to public safety. Traders and residents must ensure compliance to maintain a clean and orderly environment,” Oki warned.

“As part of the enforcement operations, five miscreants were arrested during operations in Ikorodu and we’re handed over to the security operatives for legal action.”

Oki, however, urged all traders, property owners, and residents to comply with the state’s building regulations and urban development laws to make the ongoing reforms impact positively on the sector.