Lagos Government Denies Involvement in FESTAC Demolition

The Lagos State Government has denied authorizing the recent demolition of structures along Sixth Avenue, FESTAC Town, describing the exercise as unauthorized and unconnected to the state’s Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, made the clarification on Tuesday, October 14, during a press briefing at Alausa, Ikeja.

He emphasized that the state operates under a transparent, regulated, and procedural framework before any demolition can be carried out, noting that no statutory notice or official engagement was issued in this particular case.

“Any demolition conducted without proper authorization does not represent this administration,” Olumide stated.

He reiterated that all demolitions sanctioned by the Lagos State Government follow due process — including statutory notices, consultations, and stakeholder engagement — to ensure fairness and compliance with planning laws.

Olumide further cautioned both federal agencies and private developers operating within the state to always obtain clearance from the ministry before executing such actions.

“We urge all relevant bodies to align with the ministry’s standards. No agency is exempt from the law,” he said.

The Commissioner reaffirmed the state’s commitment to upholding property rights, transparency, and fairness in urban development matters, assuring Lagos residents that the government remains dedicated to justice and accountability.