Makoko Residents Told to Vacate Homes Under High-Tension
The Lagos State Government has issued a stern warning to residents of Makoko to vacate buildings situated directly beneath high-tension power lines, citing extreme risks of electrocution, fire outbreaks, and structural hazards.
The Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) identified Makoko as a “high-risk zone” due to the presence of electricity cables running directly over homes and businesses.
According to Mr. Gbolahan Oki, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, the high-tension lines transmit electricity at extremely high voltages, posing a serious threat to human life.
He emphasized that the Government cannot wait until a tragedy occurs, as the lives of citizens are more important than economic activities in the Area.
The Government has engaged extensively with stakeholders, including traditional rulers and community leaders, to raise awareness about the dangers and secure their cooperation.
A video documentary of one such stakeholder meeting was shown to journalists, where community leaders acknowledged the urgent need for residents to relocate.
Oki urged the media to support the Government in sensitizing the public, pointing out that while some Countries have organized waterfront Communities, none are located beneath high-tension power lines.
The Lagos State Government has begun removing unsafe and unapproved structures, starting with Oworonshoki, and has signaled that Makoko will face similar action to protect lives and restore order.
Oki cautioned against politicizing the enforcement process, revealing that some residents had resisted compliance in the belief that political considerations would halt Government action.
The Government overnment’s warning comes after the 2024 Building Permit Amnesty Programme, which allowed owners of unapproved buildings to regularize their structures.
During the programme, 18,489 applications were submitted, and 8,856 permits were issued.
The State Government remains committed to safeguarding lives, improving the environment, and enforcing urban planning laws.
