The Lagos State Government has distanced itself from the recent demolition of structures in FESTAC Town, clarifying that the exercise was not authorised by the state.
In a statement titled “Lagos Government Denies Involvement in FESTAC Demolition”, the Director of Public Affairs at the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, Mukaila Sanusi, quoted the Commissioner, Oluyinka Olumide, as saying that the government had no hand in the operation.
Olumide emphasised that Lagos follows a transparent and regulated process for all demolition activities, which includes the issuance of statutory notices and consultations with affected stakeholders.
“Any demolition carried out without proper authorisation does not reflect the position or practice of this administration,” the commissioner stated, assuring residents of the government’s commitment to fairness, due process, and the protection of property rights.
He further urged all agencies, including federal bodies operating within the state, to obtain clearance from the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development before embarking on any demolition exercise.
The clarification comes in the wake of a series of demolitions in FESTAC earlier this month, where more than 15 buildings along 6th Avenue were reportedly pulled down over the weekend, leaving traders and shop owners in distress.
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