Lagos Govt Marks 39 Buildings for Demolition Over Ikota River Encroachment

In a sweeping enforcement move, the Lagos State Government has identified 39 buildings for demolition across two affluent estates—Oral Extension Estate and Westend, Mega Mond Estate—in Eti-Osa Local Government Area.

According to the State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, the demolition is in response to ongoing encroachments on the Right of Way (RoW) of the Ikota River, located within the Maroko Okun Alfa ward of Lekki.

Breakdown of Marked Structures:

• 20 buildings slated for total demolition

• 8 buildings for partial removal

• 13 buildings in Westend Estate to be completely brought down

Indefinite Quit Notices Issued

Occupants of the affected properties have been issued quit notices and advised to relocate their belongings immediately, as demolition will commence shortly.

“We Tried a Win-Win… Developers Pushed Back” — Wahab

Speaking at the scene, Commissioner Wahab revealed that the government received multiple petitions about illegal construction along the Ikota River corridor.

“While we were engaging for a peaceful resolution, some developers were still altering the river’s alignment and expanding into restricted areas,” Wahab said.

He noted that digital assessments and on-ground inspections revealed “severe violations” and “ongoing reclamation” far beyond the approved boundaries.

Reclamation Without Environmental Approval

Wahab criticized the lack of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) documentation and warned developers:

“If they don’t comply, we will wield the big stick. Push back the sand, stop construction, and submit proper documents—or face the consequences.”

Oral and Westend Estates Under Scrutiny

• At Oral Extension, 18 buildings were found along the river stretch.

• After the canal, another 13 buildings have been identified.

• In Westend Estate, 8 more buildings are also set for demolition.

Wahab emphasized that despite previous warnings and visits, developers continued to flout regulations and even assigned titles to unsuspecting buyers—putting many innocent families at risk.

Government’s Final Word

“This is not about targeting residents, it’s about preventing an environmental disaster,” Wahab stated.
He reiterated the state’s commitment to drainage safety, river preservation, and urban planning discipline, calling on developers to cease illegal reclamation or face full demolition penalties.