Lagos Begins Demolition of Illegal Buildings at Trade Fair Complex

The Lagos State Government on Thursday began demolishing illegal and unsafe buildings at the Trade Fair Complex in Ojo, in a move aimed at restoring order and enforcing the state’s physical planning laws.

The operation was carried out by a joint team that included the Ministry of Physical Planning, Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), Lagos State Urban Renewal Agency (LASURA), and the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (PPPA). Security agencies were also on hand to maintain peace during the exercise.

Senior Special Assistant on New Media to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Jubril Gawat, confirmed the demolition in a post on X. He said the operation targets “illegal developments, structures without statutory approvals, defective structures, and buildings erected on road setbacks and drainages.”

Gawat added, “The Lagos State Government has begun the removal of illegal developments, structures without statutory approvals and defective structures, and structures built on road setback and drainages in the Trade Fair Complex, Ojo Local Government area.”

Focus on Safety and Compliance

According to officials, the demolition exercise is part of the state government’s larger plan to ensure compliance with building and planning regulations across Lagos. The Trade Fair Complex has long faced issues with buildings erected without approval, which pose risks to residents, workers, and visitors. Some structures were built too close to roads or drainage channels, creating potential hazards during heavy rains.

The Ministry of Physical Planning noted that the state has received repeated complaints about unapproved constructions at the complex. These structures not only violate Lagos State laws but also hinder the proper functioning of drainage systems and access roads. By removing such buildings, authorities hope to prevent accidents, reduce flooding risks, and restore order to the area.

Officials also emphasized that the demolition is not targeted at any particular group of business owners or residents. Instead, it is a general enforcement measure designed to uphold urban planning rules. Authorities have urged affected property owners to comply with the state’s regulations and seek proper approvals before constructing buildings.

The exercise comes after several months of warnings to owners of illegal and defective buildings. Notices were reportedly served, giving them the chance to regularize their structures or remove them voluntarily. For those who ignored the warnings, the state has now moved to enforce the law.

Government and Security Presence

The demolition team included members from the Office of Infrastructure, the Lagos State House of Assembly, and law enforcement agencies. Security personnel were deployed to prevent unrest and ensure that the exercise proceeded smoothly. Early reports indicate that the operation has been carried out peacefully, with no major incidents.

Authorities also stated that the demolition is part of a broader plan to improve the Trade Fair Complex. The government intends to make the area safer, more organized, and suitable for business activities. By clearing illegal buildings, Lagos officials hope to create space for proper development, including better traffic flow, pedestrian safety, and adequate drainage.

Residents and traders in the area have expressed mixed reactions. Some business owners welcomed the action, saying it would help reduce congestion and improve safety. Others expressed concern over losing their investments, noting that some buildings were constructed without full awareness of planning rules.

The Lagos State Government has promised to continue enforcing planning regulations across other parts of the state, emphasizing that compliance with building laws is critical to the city’s growth and safety. Officials reiterated that illegal structures will not be tolerated, and the demolition at the Trade Fair Complex is just the beginning of a series of enforcement measures across Lagos.

With this action, Lagos demonstrates its commitment to urban planning, public safety, and sustainable development. The demolition exercise serves as a reminder to property owners to follow proper approval processes, and it signals the state’s determination to address long-standing planning challenges in its commercial and residential areas.

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