Lagos State Government Urges Residents to Adhere to Housing Estate Regulations
The Lagos State Government has issued a strong reminder to residents of its housing estates about the importance of following established rules and regulations. This message was delivered during a meeting between officials from the Lagos State Ministry of Housing and representatives of the Oba Adeyinka Oyekan Housing Estate Residents Association.
The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Abdulhafis Toriola, emphasized the need for residents to comply with guidelines outlined in their letters of allocation, memoranda of understanding, and deed of sublease. He stressed that adhering to these rules is not only a legal obligation but also a civic responsibility.
Toriola highlighted that following the regulations plays a crucial role in ensuring proper development, maintaining safety standards, and protecting the environment. He further noted that compliance would contribute to the government’s broader vision under the THEMES Plus Agenda, which aims to transform Lagos into a 21st-century economy with effective governance and sustainable infrastructure.
In addition, Toriola mentioned that the government is committed to promoting eco-friendly policies that will ensure housing estates remain in good condition for future generations. He assured estate representatives that technical and monitoring teams from the ministry would conduct a joint inspection of the Oba Adeyinka Oyekan Estate.
He added that the long-term success of the estate depends on the willingness of residents to follow the set rules and regulations. The Assistant Head of the Monitoring and Compliance Unit, Rasidat Ogunlaja, provided details on common violations observed in various housing estates.
Common Violations in Housing Estates
Ogunlaja listed several infractions that have been reported across different housing communities. These include:
- Repainting houses without prior approval
- Non-payment of service charges
- Construction of illegal structures
- Converting homes into shops or offices
- Causing environmental damage
- Subletting units without permission
She warned that the government has zero tolerance for such actions, particularly when it comes to the misuse of open spaces or setbacks designated for other purposes. Ogunlaja urged residents who may have made unauthorized changes to their properties or used spaces in ways not approved by the authorities to visit the ministry’s office at Alausa, Ikeja, to regularize their situations and obtain necessary approvals.
By reinforcing these rules, the Lagos State Government aims to foster a sense of responsibility among residents and ensure that all housing estates are maintained in a manner that benefits the community as a whole. The message is clear: adherence to regulations is essential for the continued growth, safety, and sustainability of these residential areas.