By Peter Jene
OSHODI, Lagos — In a move that promises to stir controversy and significant upheaval, the Lagos State Government has announced plans to commence the demolition of unauthorized extensions and structures in the bustling Oshodi Market on July 30. This sweeping action, spearheaded by the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), aims to reclaim public spaces and restore order in one of the city’s most congested commercial hubs.
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Government’s Stern Warning
Gbolahan Oki, the General Manager of LASBCA, made the announcement on Monday, setting off a wave of reactions from traders, property owners, and residents alike. “The Lagos State Building Control Agency, in conjunction with the Oshodi-Isolo Local Government Council Authority, has embarked on the sensitization of property owners, residents, shop owners, and market women and men on the removal of illegal structures, extensions built on road setbacks, shops, buildings, and public school premises around the Oshodi-Isolo LCDA,” Oki declared.
Countdown to Demolition: July 30 Deadline
Oki emphasized that the grace period for compliance will expire on July 30. “The expiration period that we are looking at is July 30, and the action we are taking is to remove all the attachments,” he stated. Highlighting the critical nature of the operation, Oki pointed out that numerous buildings have encroached onto public roads due to these unauthorized extensions, causing severe disruptions to traffic flow and posing safety hazards.
A Call for Change Amid Resistance
Addressing the inherent challenges of implementing such a massive demolition project, Oki noted, “Change is the simplest thing but very difficult to achieve. If we want change, it is going to affect us, and we are going to have that change at all costs.” He underscored the necessity of compliance with building regulations, stressing that the demolition is not aimed at any specific group but is a general enforcement of the law. “People selling on the road is unnecessary, and that is what we are trying to put in place; it is not a tribal issue. We must all comply with the rules and regulations,” Oki affirmed.
Amnesty Period and Government Directive
Traders and property owners without building plan approvals have been urged to take advantage of a 90-day amnesty period announced by Governor Babatunde Sanwo-Olu. “The reason we are here is to enforce; the directive of the governor is very clear; there is no attachment. Nothing should disrupt the flow of movement, which is very important, and that we stand on,” Oki reiterated.
Local Government’s Role
The Executive Chairman of Oshodi-Isolo Local Government, Kehinde Oloyede, highlighted the importance of accessibility within the market. “For market women to maximize whatever they are selling, they need access to the road. The state government believes that good access to roads would better help them in the performance of their duty, particularly agencies like the fire service,” Oloyede said.
Grace Period Post-Festive Sales
In collaboration with LASBCA, the local government has allowed traders to operate through the festive period ending in July before the enforcement of the demolition directive. “The local government is partnering with LASBCA to the end that we have been given grace that after the festive sale ends in July, the state will intervene. However, before then, the local government would see to it that most of these extensions and attachments were removed,” Oloyede explained.
Traders’ Concerns and the Looming Deadline
As the July 30 deadline approaches, tension and anxiety are palpable among the traders and shop owners in Oshodi Market. Many fear losing their livelihoods and are skeptical about the government’s promise of fair compensation and orderly relocation. “We have families to feed, and this market is our only source of income,” lamented one trader, who wished to remain anonymous. “The government should provide alternative spaces before demolishing our shops.”
Public Reaction: A Mix of Support and Opposition
The announcement has sparked a mixed reaction from the public. Some residents and commuters support the government’s decision, arguing that the demolition is long overdue to ease traffic congestion and improve safety. “Oshodi has become a nightmare with all these illegal structures. It’s about time the government stepped in to clean up the mess,” said a local commuter.
Conversely, others view the move as draconian and insensitive to the economic realities of the affected traders. “The government should focus on creating more markets and better infrastructure rather than displacing hardworking citizens,” argued a community activist.
Historical Context: Oshodi’s Transformation
Oshodi Market has long been a commercial hub in Lagos, renowned for its vibrant trading activities. Over the years, however, unregulated expansions and encroachments have transformed the area into a chaotic and congested zone. Previous attempts to sanitize Oshodi have met with varying degrees of success and resistance, highlighting the complex interplay between urban development and socio-economic factors.
Government’s Vision: Order and Modernization
The Lagos State Government’s current initiative reflects a broader vision to modernize urban infrastructure and enhance the livability of the city. By enforcing building regulations and clearing illegal structures, the government aims to create a more organized and efficient urban environment. “Our goal is to ensure that Lagos remains a world-class city with orderly development,” Oki emphasized.
Moving Forward: A Balancing Act
As the demolition date draws nearer, the government faces the delicate task of balancing enforcement with empathy. Adequate compensation, provision of alternative trading spaces, and transparent communication are critical to mitigating the negative impact on the affected traders. “We are committed to a fair and just process, ensuring that everyone is treated with dignity and respect,” Oki assured.
Conclusion: A Defining Moment for Lagos
The impending demolition of Oshodi Market extensions represents a defining moment for Lagos. It is a test of the government’s resolve to enforce urban planning laws and the community’s resilience in adapting to change. The outcome of this initiative will likely set a precedent for future urban development projects in Nigeria’s commercial capital.
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