The Lagos State Government has refuted claims of involvement in the recent demolition of structures in FESTAC Town. In a statement titled “Lagos Government Denies Involvement in FESTAC Demolition,” Mukaila Sanusi, Director of Public Affairs at the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, clarified that the demolitions were not authorized by the state.
Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Oluyinka Olumide, emphasized that the government adheres to transparent and regulated procedures for demolitions, which include issuing statutory notices and engaging stakeholders. He stressed that any demolition conducted without official clearance does not reflect the policies of the current administration. “We are committed to fairness, due process, and protecting property rights,” Olumide stated.
He urged all agencies, including federal bodies operating in Lagos, to seek clearance from the Ministry before undertaking demolition activities. The statement follows the demolition of over 15 buildings on 6th Avenue in FESTAC over the weekend, which left traders and shop owners in distress as bulldozers razed structures.
