Building Collapse: Lagos revokes all existing permits, orders revalidation

All existing building permits in Lagos have now been revoked as the state government has ordered builders to reapply for validation to continue operation in the state.

This was revealed by the Special Adviser on e-GIS and Urban Development to the Governor, Dr. Olajide Babatunde, during a visit to the site of the collapsed building in the Maryland area of the state on Saturday.

Babatunde was accompanied to the site by the General Manager, Lagos State Building Collapse Agency (LASBCA), Mr. Gbolahun Oki, and some members of the state executive council.

At least five people were killed when a building under construction collapsed at No. 13, Wilson Mba Street, Arowojobe Estate, Maryland, Lagos, on Thursday.

He said: “All commencement certifications in Lagos are revoked effective immediately. This applies to everyone with a construction site, including those in the “Big Five” category.

“Return to the LASBCA office to revalidate that document. If you decide not to go for the revalidation of that documentation, we are going to seal that site.”

He expressed sadness about the incident and emphasized that such events should not occur.

Babatunde, who recognized the government’s duty to prevent building collapses, criticized property owners and developers for negligence and breaching building regulations.

He highlighted the importance of obtaining a Certificate of Completion or Fitness for Habitation before occupying any building.

He also mentioned that the government would prosecute anyone who violates this rule.

The governor’s aide pointed out that the government has stringent regulations concerning building construction and occupancy.