COMMISSIONER CHARGES RESIDENTS, STAKEHOLDERS IN OJO AXIS TO OBTAIN PLANNING PERMITS FOR ALL DEVELOPMENT
The Lagos State Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, has called on residents, Community Development Associations (CDAs), Community Development Committees (CDCs), and other stakeholders in Ojo, Badagry, Iba/Oto-Awori, Amuwo, Oriade, and Olorunda districts to ensure they obtain Planning Permits for all physical developments in their respective areas.
Dr. Olumide made the call during a Public Awareness Programme organised by the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA) to sensitise stakeholders on the importance and social benefits of obtaining planning permits, both for individuals and the government.
The Commissioner explained that many structures sited on the right of way would be demolished once the government begins road construction in the affected areas, stressing that such losses could have been avoided if the owners had secured proper planning permits.
“If any building sited on the right of way had obtained a Planning Permit, the owners would be adequately compensated,” he stated.
Dr. Olumide clarified that planning permits can only be granted for properties located within approved layouts, assuring stakeholders that there would be no arbitrary demolitions at the Trade Fair.
He further emphasised that the government remains committed to promoting orderly, sustainable, and resilient physical development across the state and urged residents to embrace compliance for their benefit and the public good.
In his remarks, the General Manager, Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA), Tpl. Kehinde Osinailke expressed appreciation to all participants for responding to the invitation despite the short notice.
He reiterated LASPPPA’s openness to the public and encouraged residents, developers, and professionals to visit the Authority for clarifications or assistance regarding planning permit applications.
“Our office doors are open to everyone. We are here to enlighten, support, and work with you to ensure compliance with planning laws and promote a well-organised Lagos,” he assured.
Also, speaking at the event, Tpl. Claudius Akinyemi, a Director in LASPPPA, enlightened participants on the procedures, requirements, and benefits of obtaining a planning permit.
She highlighted that applications can now be processed online, making the process faster and more convenient. According to her, a valid planning permit not only serves as a legal document but can also be used as collateral in banks.
Tpl. Akinyemi added that holders of valid planning permits are eligible for compensation if their properties are affected by government road expansion or development projects.
She further explained the various types of permits issued by LASPPPA, including building, renovation, remodelling, and revalidation permits, and warned against the consequences of illegal constructions, which could result in demolition.
During the interactive session, several stakeholders expressed their views and concerns.
The President-General of Alaba International Amalgamated Council, High Chief (Dr.) Camilus Amajuoyi, pledged that property owners and developers at the Alaba Trade Fair would now strictly adhere to the law by obtaining planning permits before reconstructing their plazas.
Another stakeholder, High Chief Taofeek Oseni, raised concerns over long-standing buildings erected on government acquisition schemes without proper permits.
Similarly, Barrister Okolie from the Trade Fair complex revealed that some property owners had applied for permits since 2016 after obtaining federal approvals but had yet to receive LASPPPA’s response.
Meanwhile, the Chairman, Association of Draftsmen in Lagos State, Mr. Olawale Raymond appealed to the government to consider introducing another Amnesty Programme to enable owners of existing “As-Built” structures to regularise their developments.
The forum was well attended by Obas, Baales, Local Government Chairmen, CDAs, CDCs, and residents from the six district offices under LASPPPA, Ojo, Badagry, Iba/Oto-Awori, Amuwo, Oriade, and Olorunda, all of whom commended the government for the enlightenment initiative.
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