Environment
Lagos launches demolition drive at trade fair complex to combat illegal structures, flooding
Written By: Emmanuel Ikhenebome
25 Sep 2025 05:08 PM
Ojo, Lagos – In a decisive move to address urban planning violations and mitigate flooding risks, the Lagos State Government initiated a large-scale demolition operation at the Trade Fair Complex in Ojo Local Government Area on Thursday.
The operation, aimed at removing illegal developments, structures without statutory approvals, and those obstructing road setbacks and drainage channels, has sparked a mix of reactions from residents and stakeholders.
The demolition drive, confirmed by Jubril Gawat, Senior Special Assistant to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on New Media, via a post on X, involved a coalition of state agencies including the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), Lagos State Urban Renewal Agency (LASURA), Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA), and the Office of Infrastructure.
Security personnel were also present to maintain order during the operation.
The government targeted over 19 structures identified as encroachments that exacerbate flooding in the area, particularly following recent heavy rains that inundated parts of Lagos.
Gawat's post highlighted the presence of high-ranking officials from the Ministry of Physical Planning and members of the Lagos House of Assembly, underscoring the operation's significance.
"Lagos State Government begins removal of illegal development, structures without statutory approvals and defective structures and structures built on road setback and drainages in the Trade Fair Complex, Ojo Local Government area," Gawat stated, emphasizing the enforcement of physical planning laws to restore order and enhance public safety.
The operation has been met with shock and distress from investors and traders who had established businesses in the affected structures.
This operation is part of a broader effort by the Lagos State Government to reclaim public spaces and enforce building regulations, a move that has been both praised for its intent to improve urban infrastructure and criticized for its timing and impact on livelihoods.
The Trade Fair Complex, originally designed as a facility for international trade fairs, has evolved into a significant commercial area, hosting various trade associations and markets.
Critics have questioned the efficacy of the responsible agencies, arguing that the scale of illegal constructions suggests a failure in regulatory oversight.
"How do whole estates and markets get fully built before anyone realizes they’re illegal? That’s a system failure," a resident remarked, calling for a restructuring of the Ministry of Physical Planning.
The demolition is seen as a critical step in clearing drainage channels and reducing the risk of future flooding, which has been a recurring issue in Lagos due to its low-lying terrain and dense population.
As the dust settles literally and figuratively, the government faces the challenge of balancing enforcement with compassion, ensuring that affected individuals receive adequate support.
The operation at the Trade Fair Complex serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing tension between rapid urbanization and the need for structured growth in one of Africa's most dynamic cities.
The operation, aimed at removing illegal developments, structures without statutory approvals, and those obstructing road setbacks and drainage channels, has sparked a mix of reactions from residents and stakeholders.
The demolition drive, confirmed by Jubril Gawat, Senior Special Assistant to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on New Media, via a post on X, involved a coalition of state agencies including the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), Lagos State Urban Renewal Agency (LASURA), Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA), and the Office of Infrastructure.
Security personnel were also present to maintain order during the operation.
The government targeted over 19 structures identified as encroachments that exacerbate flooding in the area, particularly following recent heavy rains that inundated parts of Lagos.
Gawat's post highlighted the presence of high-ranking officials from the Ministry of Physical Planning and members of the Lagos House of Assembly, underscoring the operation's significance.
"Lagos State Government begins removal of illegal development, structures without statutory approvals and defective structures and structures built on road setback and drainages in the Trade Fair Complex, Ojo Local Government area," Gawat stated, emphasizing the enforcement of physical planning laws to restore order and enhance public safety.
The operation has been met with shock and distress from investors and traders who had established businesses in the affected structures.
This operation is part of a broader effort by the Lagos State Government to reclaim public spaces and enforce building regulations, a move that has been both praised for its intent to improve urban infrastructure and criticized for its timing and impact on livelihoods.
The Trade Fair Complex, originally designed as a facility for international trade fairs, has evolved into a significant commercial area, hosting various trade associations and markets.
Critics have questioned the efficacy of the responsible agencies, arguing that the scale of illegal constructions suggests a failure in regulatory oversight.
"How do whole estates and markets get fully built before anyone realizes they’re illegal? That’s a system failure," a resident remarked, calling for a restructuring of the Ministry of Physical Planning.
The demolition is seen as a critical step in clearing drainage channels and reducing the risk of future flooding, which has been a recurring issue in Lagos due to its low-lying terrain and dense population.
As the dust settles literally and figuratively, the government faces the challenge of balancing enforcement with compassion, ensuring that affected individuals receive adequate support.
The operation at the Trade Fair Complex serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing tension between rapid urbanization and the need for structured growth in one of Africa's most dynamic cities.
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