The Lagos State Government has intensified its enforcement drive against estates operating without approved layout plans and building permits, sealing several structures across the Lekki axis and Lagos Island.

The action, carried out through the Office of Physical Planning, follows an earlier move in 2025 when the government identified 176 illegal estate developments, largely in Eti-Osa, Ajah, Ibeju-Lekki and Epe. Affected developers were given a 21-day ultimatum to regularise their layout approvals.

The estates were declared illegal for failing to obtain layout approvals from the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development. The ministry noted that such developments undermine sustainable urban growth and run contrary to the state’s T.H.E.M.E.S Plus Agenda.

Among estates previously listed were Adron Homes, Elerangbe; Aina Gold Estate, Okun-Folu; Diamond Estate, Eputu; Prime Water View Garden, Ikate Elegushi; and Royal View Estate, Ikota.

Speaking on the latest enforcement exercise, Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, said the operation, which began on Wednesday, was led by the Director of Development Matters, Hakeem Animashaun, and targeted previously cautioned estates in the Lekki corridor.

Although he did not disclose the total number of sealed buildings, Olumide reaffirmed the government’s zero-tolerance stance on unauthorised developments. He urged developers to secure necessary layout approvals and building permits before commencing construction.

According to him, the Office of Physical Planning is statutorily mandated to ensure that all developments in the state comply with approved planning standards and regulations.

“We will continue to enforce compliance across the state. Developers must prioritise obtaining layout approvals and building permits to avoid sealing and other penalties,” he said.

Olumide added that the enforcement drive aligns with the state government’s commitment to orderly urban development, protection of infrastructure and sustainable growth, particularly in rapidly expanding areas such as Lekki-Ajah.

He stressed that similar operations would be extended to other parts of the state to strengthen compliance and uphold planning standards.

Estates visited during the exercise included Victoria Nest, Vistaview Estate, Empire Homes, JadeView Estate, BlessedView Homes and Micrian Villa Estate, among others. (Vanguard)

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