Lagos Clears Illegal Shanties in Ikeja GRA Over Security Concerns

The Lagos State Government has launched a major clearance exercise in the Ikeja Government Reserved Area (GRA), targeting makeshift structures and unauthorized shanties. This initiative is in response to growing concerns about security threats and urban disorder in the high-end residential district.

The operation was carried out by the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) in collaboration with other key agencies including the Physical Planning Permit Authority, Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI), the state traffic authority, and the local residents’ association. Their collective aim was to restore sanity to the neighborhood and eliminate structures that posed risks to public safety.

According to LASBCA’s Permanent Secretary, the cleared structures had become hideouts for criminal activity, including serving as locations to stash stolen items. He noted that the removal followed a series of stakeholder engagements and warnings, during which property owners and developers were urged to submit valid building approvals for inspection.

The demolition covered several prominent streets such as Isaac John, Remi Fani-Kayode, Michael Otedola, Ajisafe, and Showemimo. Many residents had voiced concerns over the unchecked spread of illegal constructions, which they believed compromised the area’s safety and aesthetics.

A community representative described the government's move as timely and necessary, emphasizing the residents’ willingness to work with authorities to uphold the standard of the neighborhood.

This exercise highlights the state government’s continued commitment to enforcing planning laws and ensuring that Lagos communities remain safe and well-structured.