Lagos govt to demolish buildings under high tension power lines in different areas

The Lagos State Government has announced a renewed plan to pull down all buildings and structures erected beneath high tension power lines in several communities, including Makoko, Oworonshoki, Adekunle and parts of Ebute-Metta. Officials say the enforcement effort forms part of broader actions to safeguard public safety and protect critical infrastructure, especially along the Third Mainland Bridge corridor where illegal structures encroach on the legally mandated right-of-way. Authorities noted that many of the buildings identified were located too close to transmission cables and violate planning laws.

Olajide Babatunde, Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Electronic Geographic Information System and Urban Development, disclosed the demolition plan during an assessment tour with senior officials from the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development and the Lagos State Urban Renewal Agency. The tour aimed to check compliance with safety and planning regulations on high risk zones beneath power lines and near key transport infrastructure. Babatunde warned that the state will not tolerate habitation or commercial activities in restricted areas that endanger lives and property.

The government has repeatedly cautioned residents and property owners in Makoko and other high-risk communities about the dangers of living under transmission cables because of the risks of electrocution, structural collapse and fire outbreaks. Enforcement teams, including the Lagos State Building Control Agency, have been directed to carry out demolitions without further notice where necessary to ensure compliance with urban development laws.

As Lagos continues to grow and develop, the government insists that enforcing planning standards around high tension power lines and transport corridors is essential to prevent accidents and protect residents. Do you think the state should offer relocation support for affected residents or stick strictly to enforcement? Comment below and share your thoughts.

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