Lagos moves to tackle illegal encroachment of open spaces in Ikoyi-Obalende
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Lagos State, through LASISMA and the Ikoyi-Obalende LCDA, is moving to curb illegal encroachment of open spaces, setbacks and walkways, weeks after issuing a seven-day ultimatum to occupants of makeshift structures on public institution corridors.
The Lagos State Government, through the Lagos State Informal Space Management Authority (LASISMA) and the Ikoyi-Obalende Local Council Development Area (LCDA), has moved to tackle illegal encroachment of informal and incidental open spaces within the council area.
The move followed a courtesy visit by LASISMA leadership to the Executive Chairman of Ikoyi-Obalende LCDA, Honourable Bola Oladunjoye, to strengthen collaboration on the management of informal urban spaces and improve compliance with physical planning regulations in the area.
LASISMA General Manager Daisi Oso, who led the delegation, presented the Authority's statutory mandate and highlighted areas of collaboration including the management and protection of setbacks, incidental open spaces, walkways and public institutions' rights-of-way within Ikoyi-Obalende.
Oso said effective management of informal urban and incidental open spaces requires a coordinated approach involving relevant government institutions and local communities, and sought the council's support in stakeholder sensitisation, data gathering, documentation and enforcement of physical planning regulations.
The engagement comes after the state government issued a seven-day ultimatum to illegal occupants and operators of makeshift structures encroaching on the setbacks of public institutions, including hospitals and schools, directing them to dismantle their structures and vacate the designated corridors or face enforcement.
Oso said the directive, which affects informal traders, makeshift stall owners and roadside operators, is aimed at preventing traffic congestion and ensuring unhindered access for security operations, health emergencies and critical patient care. The council chairman expressed readiness to collaborate with LASISMA whenever enforcement becomes necessary.