Lucky Obukohwo Reporting
The Lagos state government has given seven days ultimatum to over 200 property owners in Okun Ajah Waterfront Scheme , Eti Osa Local Government Area (LGA) of the state to vacate government land or risk demolitions.
The state government has marked and served the properties and their owners with contravention notice.
A seven-day ultimatum was given to the affected property owners, encouraging them to present relevant documents and approvals validating their occupation of the land.
According to the state government, the move is targeted at addressing encroachment on government land and uphold the rights of legitimate landowners and to ensures transparency and fairness in land allocation.
During an inspection of the area, the Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Mr. Yacoob Ekundayo Alebiosu, stressed the government’s determination to enforcing the law and protecting state-owned land from unauthorized private investments.
Alebiosu pointed out that this action follows four previously issued contravention notices, highlighting the government’s patient and meticulous approach.
Property owners have been urged to voluntarily remove any encroaching structures before the ultimatum expires.
Alebiosu promised that if government intervention is required, the cost of enforcement will be recovered from the property owners.
The ministry has thoroughly reviewed all necessary processes in Okun Ajah, marking this as the final step in ensuring compliance.
Alebiosu stated that the Ministry of Physical Planning will soon take possession of the land, emphasizing that properties without proper waterfront clearance and necessary approvals have been identified and will be addressed.
Alebiosu reassured the public that the government is committed to a fair resolution, noting that legitimate landowners are ready to take possession but have been hindered by illegal sales. The enforcement team’s presence aims to protect these legal owners and maintain order.
He advised illegal occupants in other waterfront schemes to seek the appropriate clearances from the Ministry of Waterfront Infrastructure Development, as approvals from the Ministry of Physical Planning require this clearance.
The Lagos state government’s proactive measures are a positive step towards ensuring lawful land ownership and protecting the interests of legitimate property owners in Okun Ajah.