The Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, has hinted at a potential policy shift regarding demolishing illegal structures in the state. He suggested that individuals whose buildings are demolished may soon be required to cover the demolition costs.
This revelation arose amidst a social media exchange between Wahab and Twitter user Ola Kasali regarding the recent demolition of buildings in Mende estate, Kosofe Local Government Area. The discussion centered on whether the individual responsible for initiating the demolition should bear the associated costs.
Wahab responded to criticisms, clarifying the circumstances behind the demolitions. He emphasized the importance of adhering to development permits and complying with environmental regulations. Wahab pointed out a key condition from a permit issued 16 years ago, stating, “You are, however, advised to maintain the conditions given in the Development Permit and comply with the conditions stated by the Ministry of Environment.”
Regarding the recent destruction in Mende estate, Wahab addressed concerns raised by Twitter user @I_Am_Ilemona, emphasizing the importance of adhering to approved building plans. He stated, “If you build beyond the approved plan, you have violated the conditions of approval, and your approval becomes entirely invalid.”
Wahab highlighted the responsibility of developers in ensuring compliance with regulations, noting, “The Developer who is sponsoring many of you knew what he was doing. He went ahead, encroaching on the part for which he was not approved.”
Acknowledging public discontent over the demolitions, Wahab assured that the era of lax enforcement was over, stating, “We cannot be complaining about a problem and still complain about the solution.”
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Responding to a Twitter user’s suggestion that individuals responsible for illegal structures should also cover demolition and cleaning fees, Wahab hinted at the possibility, stating, “At some point, we’ll get to that!”
The recent demolition of buildings in Arowojogbe, Mende estate, sparked outrage among residents. Wahab clarified that the demolitions were necessary to prevent flooding and were conducted on structures built in the drainage right of way.
