Nigeria: Lagos Takes Swift Action: Demolishes Critically Distressed 4-Storey Building in Ebute Metta Following Building Collapse
By Ahmad Hadizat Omayoza, Mamos Nigeria
Lagos State Government Takes Swift Action: Demolishes Distressed Building in Ebute-Metta
The Lagos State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, in collaboration with the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), executed the demolition of a perilous four-storey building at 16 Oloto Street in Ebute-Metta. Additionally, 42 other structures in the vicinity were identified as distressed, prompting the owners to initiate demolition procedures to prevent potential collapse and safeguard lives and property.
Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, emphasized the government’s commitment to protecting citizens’ lives and properties by addressing critically distressed structures. He disclosed that the demolished building had undergone a Non-destructive Test (NDT), indicating its unsuitability for habitation. Despite prior notices urging evacuation, the owner’s non-compliance necessitated the government’s intervention.
General Manager of LASBCA, Arc. Gbolahan Owodunni Oki, highlighted the failure of numerous marked buildings to pass structural tests, signifying their unsafe conditions. The ongoing demolition initiative aims to eliminate potential hazards and prevent building collapses. Oki warned of sanctions, including possible land forfeiture to the state government, for owners who fail to comply with the demolition directives for distressed buildings.
