The Lagos State Government on Thursday began the demolition of illegal and unsafe buildings at the Trade Fair Complex in Ojo.
The move, carried out with bulldozers and security support, is part of efforts to enforce planning rules and restore order to the busy commercial hub.
According to officials, the operation focused on structures without approvals, defective buildings, and developments that had been built on road setbacks and drainage channels. Many of the marked structures were brought down as traders and shop owners watched, worried about how the action would affect their businesses.
The demolition was jointly handled by agencies including the Ministry of Physical Planning, the Lagos State Building Control Agency, the Lagos State Urban Renewal Agency, and the Physical Planning Permit Authority. Lawmakers and other government representatives were also present to monitor the exercise.
The Sanwo-Olu administration has repeatedly warned against unapproved constructions that block vital infrastructure and increase flooding and traffic problems across the city. With Lagos already struggling with congestion, the state says it cannot allow structures that worsen drainage and road conditions.
This latest exercise comes after the expiration of a government amnesty programme that gave owners of irregular buildings a chance to regularise them without penalty. Since the deadline closed, enforcement actions have been stepped up across the state. Past demolitions have drawn backlash from residents and traders, many of whom argue that they were given little time to move out or protect their property.