The Federal Housing Authority (FHA) has announced intentions to fully demolish 677 houses, with an additional 744 structures facing partial demolition due to violations by a developer in Phase 2, Festac Town, Amuwo-Odofin area of Lagos State.
Mr. Akintola Olagbemiro, the FHA’s South-West Zonal Manager, revealed these plans during a visit to the affected area to assess the extent of non-compliance with building codes and environmental regulations.
Despite prior communications and stakeholder meetings, the developers persist in constructing on swampy land without meeting necessary requirements, as stated by Olagbemiro. He emphasized the need to address encroachment and illegal development, which is transforming the area into a slum, expressing the agency’s commitment to resolving the situation for a more serene living environment.
Francisca Michael-James, Deputy General Manager of FHA, Urban and Regional Planning, Southwest, noted that numerous notices were issued to residents, but construction activities continued without regard for the law. With the permission of the management, the agency plans to enforce security measures and initiate the removal of structures encroaching on roads and pipelines setbacks.
She highlighted the agency’s commitment to clearing roads and partially demolishing structures for the right of way. The enforcement process will address the non-compliance issues, and buildings failing to meet regularization requirements will be subject to demolition, with penalties imposed on owners for the costs incurred during the operation. The agency aims to prevent potential hazards and ensure compliance with regulations.
