Sanwo-Olu vows clampdown on illegal beachfront structures, hands over new power station to coastal communities

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Tuesday embarked on an unscheduled five-hour inspection of key riverine communities, warning property developers against unregulated construction along the state’s prized coastal corridor.

The governor, accompanied by Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat and members of the State Executive Council, visited Ibeshe, Kare, and Inagbe – communities bordering Ilashe – to assess unapproved developments and inspect ongoing infrastructure projects, including a newly completed 30MVA electricity station.

Sanwo-Olu expressed dissatisfaction over what he described as “flagrant abuse of physical planning regulations,” noting that several buildings had encroached on approved setbacks from the shoreline. He directed the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, alongside the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), to conduct a full enumeration of violations before government takes a final decision on the corridor’s redevelopment.

“We are bringing order, sanity, and repossession to redefine livelihood in these communities,” Sanwo-Olu said. “There has been complete abuse of ocean setbacks and planning approvals. We will return for enumeration to determine how to regularise development, protect locals, and ensure the area realises its full tourism potential.”

During the visit, the governor officially handed over the Ilashe electricity station to Eko Electricity Distribution Company (Eko Disco), directing the utility firm to expedite connections to households in the riverine neighbourhood. He said the infrastructure would improve local living standards and enable communities to benefit from Lagos’ growing tourism economy.

Sanwo-Olu also held meetings with traditional rulers to discuss security gaps and health service needs, pledging a “win-win solution” that balances development control with community inclusion.

“This entire stretch is a future we need to preserve,” the governor added. “Government will correct what has been done wrongly, but we will do so inclusively, ensuring livelihoods are protected as we boost tourism.”