Allegations of theft and assault have emerged following the demolition of an illegal structure in Lekki Phase 1. Chioma Ikokwu, CEO of Goodhair, accused officials from the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) of misconduct, including attempts to steal materials and seize her phone, while sharing videos of the incident on Instagram.
In response, LASBCA released a statement denying the allegations and stating that the operation was conducted in accordance with Lagos State Building Codes and Regulations. The agency stated that the property owner initiated the demolition without obtaining the necessary permits, contravening state laws.
Officials highlighted that they had served multiple notices, such as Convention, Seal-off, and Quit Notices, before the demolition. LASBCA described the viral video as misleading and claimed its officials encountered resistance from occupants who failed to comply with legal requirements.
Gbolahan Owodunni Oki, General Manager of LASBCA, stated that the agency followed due process and criticized the unauthorized removal of the structure. He also condemned attempts to obstruct officials and spread false narratives about the incident.
“The video circulating online seeks to misinform the public and gain unwarranted sympathy for individuals who flout Lagos State’s Building and Environmental Regulations,” Oki said. He urged the public to support the government’s efforts to enforce compliance with building laws.