The Lagos State Government has evacuated residents from structurally distressed buildings located in Surulere and Apapa, citing serious safety risks.
The operation, led by the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), targeted properties at No. 28 and 20 Ramlat Timson Street in Coker Aguda, Surulere, and another building on Oloko Dana Street, Abule Nla, Apapa. LASBCA announced the development via its official X (formerly Twitter) account on Tuesday.
The agency described the buildings as dangerously unstable, with visible signs of structural defects, including cracked cantilevers, exposed reinforcement rods, and unauthorized alterations. Accompanying images and videos showed parts of the buildings crumbling under minimal pressure, emphasizing their deteriorated state.
LASBCA has ramped up efforts to address substandard and unsafe structures across Lagos. These actions include sealing non-compliant buildings, evacuating occupants from high-risk properties, and demolishing irreparably weak structures.
Recent initiatives include the evacuation of occupants from a critically distressed building in Gbagada in October and issuing demolition notices to residents of over 15 unsafe structures at Iponri Housing Estate.
The agency also supervises ongoing construction projects to ensure adherence to approved building plans, aiming to maintain high construction standards and prevent disasters.
LASBCA reiterated its dedication to safeguarding lives and property by enforcing compliance with building safety regulations. Officials have warned that ignoring structural defects could lead to catastrophic consequences and urged property owners to prioritize safety.
As Lagos continues its urban development drive, the government remains committed to addressing building safety concerns to ensure a secure environment for all residents.