Lagos Government Warns Developers, Cracks Down on Illegal Buildings at Trade Fair Complex

The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance against illegal and unapproved buildings at the Trade Fair Complex in Ojo, warning that unregulated developments pose grave threats to public safety.

Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, issued the warning in a statement on Thursday, stressing that the enforcement action is supported by a 2003 Supreme Court judgment, which empowers states to regulate physical development within their territories except in areas under exclusive federal jurisdiction.

The government’s renewed crackdown follows a series of demolitions across the state, including recent operations around the Trade Fair Complex. Some residents had accused the state of targeting a specific ethnic group; however, Olumide dismissed such claims as false and politically motivated.

“This enforcement is not about land ownership or ethnicity. It’s about ensuring that all structures comply with approved planning permits,” he said.

He reminded developers and occupants within the complex to regularise their building approvals within two weeks, in line with the Nigerian Urban and Regional Planning Act (1992) and the Lagos State Urban and Regional Planning and Development Law (2019).

The Commissioner cautioned political actors, particularly from the South-East, against stoking ethnic tensions or misrepresenting the government’s lawful actions.

Olumide further cited several other areas where illegal structures had been removed including Pelewura Market, Bombata Market, LSDPC Ilasan Estate, Otumara in Ebute Metta, Alaba Rago, and Oluwole Market  noting that these locations are occupied by diverse ethnic groups.

He also pointed out that states like Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, and Imo have carried out similar enforcement exercises to promote urban renewal and flood control.

“It is therefore wrong for anyone to attach ethnic meaning to our efforts. Lagos enforcement actions are guided strictly by law,” Olumide stated.

The Commissioner urged residents and stakeholders to support the state’s mission of achieving a safe, orderly, and sustainable Lagos, warning that the government would not compromise on safety standards.

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