Lagos, Nigeria – The Lagos State Government has defended the recent demolition of over nine plazas at the International Trade Fair Complex, Ojo, insisting the exercise was a lawful enforcement of physical planning regulations aimed at safeguarding lives and ensuring urban order.
Speaking after growing criticism from traders and stakeholders, the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, said the state’s action was anchored on the Supreme Court judgment of 2003 and the Lagos State Urban and Regional Planning and Development Law of 2019 (as amended).
He stressed that the location of the Trade Fair Complex on Federal Government land does not exempt developers from securing approvals from Lagos authorities or complying with state physical planning laws.
“We have acted decisively to halt further development of unapproved and unsafe buildings in the Complex. A livable, organised, and sustainable built environment is crucial to achieving our T.H.E.M.E.S+ Agenda,” Olumide said.
History of Non-Compliance
According to the commissioner, the Trade Fair Complex has a history of non-compliance with building regulations despite repeated warnings, including a November 2023 directive asking developers to regularise their projects with the Ministry. He added that the demolitions followed the expiration of an amnesty programme which gave property owners time to correct irregularities without penalty.
The enforcement, he explained, was carried out by multiple agencies, including the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), the Urban Renewal Agency, and the Physical Planning Permit Authority, with security operatives on standby.
Traders Cry Foul
Despite the state’s justification, many traders at the complex expressed outrage, saying the demolitions would cripple their businesses ahead of the lucrative December sales period.
One affected trader, Chief Udochukwu Uche, described the exercise as “pure punishment” and alleged it was politically motivated. He warned traders in Ladipo and other major markets to “brace up” for similar actions.
Wider Urban Agenda
Officials maintain that the demolitions are part of a wider campaign to tackle illegal constructions that block drainage systems, road setbacks, and fuel flooding and traffic congestion in Lagos.
“Unapproved developments endanger lives and obstruct critical infrastructure. The state cannot sit back while such practices continue,” one senior official said.
While critics argue that enforcement has been heavy-handed, the government insists its priority remains protecting lives, restoring order, and strengthening compliance with urban planning standards across the state.