Collapse building: Lagos orders stoppage of structures above 3 storeys in Ebute-Metta

IBRAHIM QUADRI

As part of measures to address collapse of buildings, the Lagos State Government on Wednesday ordered the immediate stoppage of approval for structures above three floors in Ebute-Metta East and West.

Mukaila Sanusi

According to a statement signed by the Deputy Director,  Public Affairs in the ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, Mukaila Sanusi quoted Commissioner of the ministry Dr. Idris Salako, said that the move followed  an audit of  buildings  in the area.

He said the low-lying nature of Ebute-Metta and its negative impact on some of the buildings, most of which showed serious defects, made it mandatory for the Government to apply special measures to save lives and property.

” The soil and topography,  the low water level and effects as well as the inability of structures in this area to bear loads above three floors were considered in arriving at this decision ” , he said.

The Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority ( LASPPPA) has been directed to henceforth stop taking applications for approval above three floors in the area.

“To guarantee safety of lives and property by ensuring that we put a halt to lives being cut short by incidents of building collapse, the Government has been compelled to invoke the relevant sections of the Lagos State Urban and Regional Planning and Development Law 2019, as amended, to address   the crisis”, he said.

Salako called for understanding of stakeholders as the decision is in the best interest of the State.