The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State has defended the ongoing demolition of illegal buildings across the state, saying the government has a responsibility to enforce urban planning laws to protect lives and property.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the APC’s Lagos spokesperson, Seye Oladejo, said Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration is committed to creating a safer and more sustainable urban environment — and that cannot happen if illegal developments are allowed to thrive.
Demolitions not political, APC insists
Oladejo addressed criticisms that the demolitions are politically motivated or targeted at specific communities or individuals. He dismissed those claims, saying the exercise is rooted in law and public safety, not politics.
“No responsible government can ignore the dangers posed by illegal structures that threaten lives, disrupt development, and compromise public safety,” Oladejo said.
He explained that the affected properties had been given multiple warnings and opportunities to comply with building regulations before enforcement began.
Process followed before enforcement
According to Oladejo, every demolition followed a transparent and legally guided process, including:
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Site inspections by regulatory bodies
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Issuance of contravention notices
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Engagement with property owners
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Grace periods for compliance
“The Sanwo-Olu administration demonstrated restraint and compassion by engaging stakeholders and granting several compliance extensions before taking action,” he said.
Safety and sustainability as key goals
The APC emphasized that the demolitions are not acts of cruelty or punishment, but preventive measures to avoid disasters such as building collapses, fire outbreaks, and flooding.
Lagos has witnessed multiple building collapses in recent years, some of which resulted in deaths. According to Oladejo, allowing unapproved structures to remain standing is a ticking time bomb.
“We must ensure that development in Lagos aligns with long-term urban planning goals, including environmental sustainability, infrastructure efficiency, and public safety,” he added.
Respect for the rule of law
Oladejo also warned against attempts to politicize urban planning enforcement, stating that Lagos will not be swayed by political rhetoric that undermines the rule of law.
“Lagos will not be lectured on governance by those who fail to understand that development requires discipline, consistency, and respect for the law,” he said.
A vision for a liveable megacity
The APC reiterated that the demolitions are part of the broader urban renewal strategy being implemented by the Sanwo-Olu administration.
This strategy includes:
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Upgrading slums and informal settlements
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Enforcing building standards and zoning laws
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Investing in drainage systems and road infrastructure
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Ensuring better access to public utilities
Oladejo reaffirmed that Lagos remains committed to becoming a liveable, resilient, and globally competitive megacity.
Conclusion
The Lagos APC’s defence of the ongoing demolitions is a clear signal that the state government will continue to prioritise public safety and urban order over political appeasement. While some may criticise the approach, the party insists that adherence to law and planning is essential for the city’s long-term stability and prosperity.
