The Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) has issued a stern warning to developers and building owners at Alaba International Market in Ojo Local Government Area.
During a routine inspection on ongoing renovations and remodeling in the market, LASBCA’s General Manager, Arc. Gbolahan Oki, sounded the alarm over widespread non-compliance with state building regulations.
Many of the buildings inspected were found to be in poor condition, raising serious safety concerns.
According to Oki, most of the developers lacked essential documents, including building plan approvals and renovation permits.
“No building construction or renovation should take place in Lagos State without valid approval,” he stressed.
He also revealed that none of the buildings had undergone the mandatory Non-Destructive Test (NDT) by the Lagos State Material Testing Laboratory (LSMTL) to confirm their structural stability.
“Building stability is non-negotiable,” Oki added, emphasizing the importance of safety in densely populated areas like Alaba Market.
The LASBCA boss urged developers to take advantage of the ongoing Lagos State Amnesty Programme, which allows them to regularize their building documents.
This amnesty programme runs until December 31, 2024, and offers a critical window for compliance.
“Failure to comply will attract severe sanctions,” Oki warned.
Compliance Is Non-Negotiable
Oki noted that the Lagos State Government takes a zero-tolerance approach to illegal construction.
“Any structure without proper documentation and approval will face the full wrath of the law,” he declared.
He also called on the Alaba Amalgamated Association to submit a comprehensive list of all buildings currently under renovation in the market.
“This list will help us monitor and supervise the projects thoroughly,” he explained.
The move is aimed at ensuring every stage of construction is inspected and certified by LASBCA officials.
Building Owners on Edge
Building owners and developers in the market are now scrambling to comply with the state’s directives.
Some expressed concern over the financial implications of obtaining the necessary permits and conducting structural tests.
“We’ve already spent so much on these renovations,” a developer lamented. “Now we have to pay for permits and tests?”
However, LASBCA insists that safety must come first.
“It’s better to spend on compliance than to risk lives,” an official from the agency remarked.
The agency’s actions are part of broader efforts to prevent building collapses, a recurring issue in Lagos.
In recent years, the state has witnessed several tragic incidents due to substandard construction practices.
“Alaba Market is a major commercial hub,” Oki said. “We cannot afford any disaster here.”
The General Manager reminded developers that compliance with building codes is not just a legal obligation but a moral one.
“Every life matters,” he emphasized.
Strict Monitoring and Supervision
Going forward, LASBCA plans to intensify its monitoring activities across Lagos State.
Officials will conduct regular spot checks to ensure ongoing projects adhere to building regulations.
Developers found violating the rules will face hefty fines, project shutdowns, or even demolition of illegal structures.
“This is a wake-up call for everyone,” Oki concluded. “We won’t tolerate shortcuts or negligence.”
With the December 31 deadline fast approaching, LASBCA is urging all stakeholders to act swiftly.
“Don’t wait until it’s too late,” Oki advised.
He encouraged developers to visit LASBCA’s offices for guidance on obtaining the necessary approvals and permits.
The agency is also working closely with other government bodies to streamline the process and make compliance easier.
As the crackdown continues, Alaba Market remains a focal point for enforcement efforts.
For now, all eyes are on the building owners to see how they respond to LASBCA’s ultimatum.
One thing is clear: the state government is not backing down.
“It’s either compliance or consequences,” an LASBCA official warned.
