Sanwo-Olu Warns Developers Over Coastal Building Violations

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has issued a stern warning to real estate developers violating planning laws along the state’s riverine corridor, following an unannounced five-hour inspection of several coastal villages.

The governor, accompanied by his deputy Dr. Obafemi Hamzat and members of the State Executive Council, visited Ibeshe, Kare, Inagbe, and Ilashe to assess ongoing development.

In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary Gboyega Akosile, Sanwo-Olu expressed alarm at the proliferation of “disjointed buildings” that disregard approved setbacks and safety laws.

“We are determined to restore order and sanity to these communities. What we have seen here is massive abuse of planning approvals and a blatant disregard for setback regulations along the oceanfront,” the governor said.

Sanwo-Olu announced that the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) and the Ministry of Physical Planning will conduct a comprehensive audit of all identified violations.

The audit, he explained, will guide decisions on how to:

• Regularise developments

• Grant legal titles

• Ensure residents are not unfairly displaced

• Unlock the tourism potential of coastal communities

During the tour, the governor also commissioned a 30-megavolt-ampere power station in Ilashe, directing EKO Discoto link the host villages to the national grid.

“This entire stretch of coastal communities represents a vital future that must be preserved. We are committed to addressing environmental and infrastructural challenges here,” Sanwo-Olu said.

The governor stressed that developers who continue to flout regulations would face government intervention.

“This is a cautionary message to those who have breached planning regulations along the coastline. The government will intervene, and we will implement a win-win solution that prioritises safety, order, and sustainable development.”