The Lagos State Government has taken a strong stance against illegal construction practices by barring AEOS Engineering Services from all construction activities in the state.
This decision follows the discovery that the contractor exceeded the approved building plan for a ten-floor structure in Somolu Local Government Area.
The site, located at Block A, Plot 5 to 10, Obanikoro, Oke-Ira Scheme, was originally approved for only six floors, which included a basement, a ground floor, and three additional floors.
The Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) revealed that AEOS Engineering Services illegally added three extra floors to the building.
This breach of the approved plan prompted swift action from the state government.
Dr. Olajide Babatunde, the Special Adviser to the Governor on e-GIS and Urban Development, made this announcement during a site inspection accompanied by LASBCA General Manager Arc. Gbolahan Oki and other officials.
Dr. Babatunde expressed disappointment at the violation of state building codes, saying, “The Owner/Developer added three more floors illegally, stressing an act that totally breached the State Building Codes and Regulations.”
Before this current ban, LASBCA had sealed the construction site after the unauthorized floors were added.
The agency issued a three-week ultimatum for the developer to rectify the violations.
However, the contractor’s failure to comply led to the government’s decision to impose stricter sanctions.
“Operators of AEOS Engineering Services will not be allowed to operate or manage any site within the state until a counter instruction is given,” Dr. Babatunde emphasized.
He further warned, “It is no longer business as usual.”
The government has announced plans to demolish the three unauthorized floors built by AEOS Engineering Services.
Dr. Babatunde reassured the public that the state is committed to maintaining compliance with building regulations.
He stated, “We will not reopen the site, and the three unauthorized floors will be demolished.”
Additionally, the Lagos State Government intends to prosecute both the owner and the developer for their violations.
The LASBCA is actively working to ensure adherence to building codes to prevent illegal constructions in Lagos.
Dr. Babatunde remarked, “Those involved in unlawful construction activities in Lagos will inevitably face justice.”
He added that the agency is prepared to enforce strict compliance with regulations, leaving no stone unturned in their efforts.
In a bid to enhance oversight, the Lagos State Government is encouraging public involvement through its Capture Lagos whistleblowing platform.
This initiative allows residents to report unauthorized developments by capturing and sharing images via their smartphones.
Dr. Babatunde urged citizens to participate, saying, “Engage with the Capture Lagos platform to help authorities monitor construction activities across the state.”
He highlighted the importance of community vigilance, stating, “Silence makes individuals complicit in illegal actions.”
The Special Adviser called on the public to be proactive in reporting any suspicious construction activities.
He emphasized, “If you see something, say something.”
This community involvement is crucial in helping the government uphold the integrity of construction practices in Lagos.
Building code violations have been a significant issue in Lagos State.
Over the years, the government has faced numerous challenges in ensuring compliance with construction regulations.
These violations often lead to unsafe buildings, which pose risks to residents and the surrounding community.
The Lagos State Government has implemented various measures to combat these illegal practices.
With this recent action against AEOS Engineering Services, officials hope to send a clear message to other contractors about the consequences of violating building codes.
Dr. Babatunde concluded, “The government will hold violators accountable.”
