The Lagos State Government has firmly stated that it will not compensate owners of illegal structures demolished along the Lekki coastline, including areas like Iyana Oworo and Oworosonki.
This decision follows recent demolitions carried out by the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) to remove unapproved buildings and shanties from the waterfront.
Reasons for Demolition
The government justifies the demolitions by citing environmental concerns. According to Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, unchecked sand dredging and illegal construction activities along the coastline pose significant risks to the ecosystem.
He emphasized that such activities could destabilize the lagoon and destroy aquatic habitats, leading to potential environmental disasters.
Displaced Residents’ Response
Following the demolitions, some displaced residents protested by blocking traffic on the Third Mainland Bridge, demanding compensation.
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However, the government maintains that compensating occupants of illegal structures would be an improper use of taxpayers’ money.
Future Plans
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has announced plans to establish a new agency responsible for recovering and utilizing over 3,000 hectares of unused land across the state.
These recovered lands are intended for development into public amenities such as parking lots, gardens, and shopping malls, in collaboration with the private sector.
