By John Umeh
The Lagos State Government has issued demolition notices to 39 buildings in several high-end residential estates over alleged encroachment on the buffer zone of the Ikota River in the Lekki axis of the state.
Officials from the Ministry of Environment and Water Resources, in collaboration with other enforcement agencies, served quit notices to occupants, warning that the marked structures will be demolished in the coming days. The government cited environmental violations, including the obstruction of natural water channels and illegal developments within the floodplain.
According to the Commissioner for the Environment, Tokunbo Wahab, the move is part of a broader effort to curb flooding in the state and restore the integrity of natural waterways increasingly threatened by unregulated urban expansion.
“We cannot allow people, no matter how influential, to build on drainage channels and river paths,” Wahab said. “These developments not only endanger the residents themselves but also create wider environmental hazards for the entire community.”
Many of the affected structures are located in luxury estates developed in recent years as part of the Lekki Peninsula’s real estate boom. Some residents have expressed shock over the notices, claiming they were unaware their properties violated any regulations.
The government, however, insists that due process was followed and that repeated warnings had been issued prior to the current enforcement action.
Environmental advocates have praised the move, saying it highlights the need for stronger urban planning enforcement in flood-prone areas, especially as Lagos continues to battle seasonal flooding and climate-related challenges.
Demolition is expected to begin shortly, pending the expiration of the quit notice period.
