The Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA) has issued a strong warning to residents, developers, and property owners across the state against the dangerous practice of occupying buildings still under construction, emphasizing that doing so poses severe risks to life and property.
The General Manager of LASPPPA, Tpl. Kehinde Osinaike, gave the caution during a recent routine enforcement exercise in parts of the state. He expressed concern over the growing disregard for established building and safety regulations, noting that several sites visited revealed occupants living in partially completed structures that have not yet received official approval for habitation.
Osinaike stressed that such actions violate the Lagos State Urban and Regional Planning and Development Law 2019, which mandates that all buildings must be fully completed and certified fit for habitation before occupation.
“The lives of Lagosians are too precious to be gambled with. Occupying a building that has not been certified safe is equivalent to stepping into a death trap,” he stated.
According to him, developers who allow tenants to move into uncompleted buildings are not only endangering lives but also committing an offence punishable by law. He added that the state government remains committed to ensuring strict adherence to urban development standards to prevent building collapse and other avoidable disasters.
The LASPPPA boss also used the opportunity to appeal to prospective tenants and property buyers to always conduct due diligence by verifying the approval status of any property through the state’s relevant planning authorities.
This warning comes amid increased incidents of building collapses across the state, some of which have been linked to unauthorized construction practices and premature occupancy.
LASPPPA reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying surveillance, enforcement, and public sensitization campaigns as part of broader efforts to enhance building safety and urban orderliness in Lagos.
Residents are encouraged to report illegal developments or suspected violations through the agency’s official channels as the state steps up efforts to safeguard lives and ensure responsible urban growth.