Lagos State stands at a dangerous crossroads. While ambitious projects like Eko Atlantic showcase a vision of urban excellence, widespread violations of basic building regulations threaten to undermine that future.
In the Ifako- Gbagada area, a four-storey building constructed without required setbacks is just one example of how regulatory failure endangers lives. Even more shocking is an illegal ten-storey development on a narrow residential street in Victoria Island—just steps from President Tinubu’s guest house. Reports suggest the UK-based developer, allegedly politically connected, claims to have bribed his way through regulatory hurdles, boasting that “not even Tinubu” can stop him.
This culture of impunity is corrosive. How can a city attract global investment if its planning laws are openly flouted? The success of events like Detty December brought billions to Lagos, but one major building collapse could destroy its reputation overnight.
The state must act now. Governor Sanwo-Olu must enforce building codes, punish violators, and cleanse regulatory agencies of corruption. Everyday in Lagos, buildings collapse and people are injured or loss of lives recorded. Lagos cannot afford to become a jungle of unsafe, unregulated construction. The promise of Lagos as Africa’s model megacity—demands urgent reform.
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