LASG gives Oshodi traders July 31 deadline to remove shops extension

The Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) has issued an ultimatum to traders and shop owners within the Oshodi Markets, directing them to remove all extensions and attachments built on shops by July 31, 2024, or face sanctions.

The General Manager of LASBCA, Arc. Gbolahan Owodunni Oki, made this declaration during an advocacy and sensitization program organized in conjunction with the Oshodi-Isolo Local Council Development Area (LCDA). Oki emphasized that the State Government is resolute in its determination to restore environmental sanity to all areas of the Lagos markets by enforcing physical planning laws and curbing the illegal activities of shops and plaza owners.

He stressed that no form of resistance, intimidation, or ethnic blackmail will deter the state from taking necessary action to clean up illegal structural extensions and attachments in the markets. Oki decried the nuisance caused by shop owners who construct attachments and extensions to display their wares and goods on walkways and roads, thereby obstructing the smooth flow of vehicular and human traffic, particularly during emergencies.

Highlighting the importance of maintaining clear roadways within the market, Oki stated, "Clearing the right of way is a standing order by the Governor, and there is no going back until the right of way is clear in all markets across the state.

He also pointed out the economic benefits of compliance, noting that "You are losing potential customers due to your illegal structures. If all roads in the market are motorable and free of traffic bottlenecks, potential customers will come and patronize you, knowing they can drive in and out with ease.

Supporting this directive, Otunba Kehinde Almaroof Oloyede, Chairman of Oshodi/Isolo LCDA, warned traders to avoid a scenario similar to the forceful removal of illegal extensions that occurred in Lagos Island. He emphasized the importance of voluntary compliance to avoid harsher measures.

Alhaja Risikat, the Iyaloja of Oshodi Market, expressed her appreciation for the grace period provided by the government and assured that the traders would adhere to the deadline and remove the extensions and attachments by themselves.

The LASBCA directives align with the Lagos State Government's broader efforts to ensure safety and orderliness in public spaces. The removal of illegal extensions and attachments is expected to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the market and improve the overall trading experience for both traders and customers.

The advocacy and sensitization program was attended by officials from the Oshodi-Isolo LCDA, led by the Chairman, Honourable Kehinde Almaroof Oloyade; representatives of market leaders led by Alhaja Risikat Abebe; developers, community leaders, and officials of the Lagos State Building Control Agency.