In a recent development, the Lagos State Government has uncovered a concerning trend involving unscrupulous developers who are shamelessly displaying fake approvals on project boards. This revelation has prompted the government to issue a public alert, urging citizens to be cautious when purchasing properties and providing essential tips to guard against falling victim to such deceitful acts.
The disclosure was made by Mr. Kehinde Osinaike, the General Manager of the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA), in a statement released on Friday. Collaborating with Mrs. Abimbola Emdin-Umeh, the Director of Public Affairs, Osinaike expressed his deep concern regarding this widespread practice, which was discovered during a comprehensive three-day enforcement program targeting non-conforming structures in prominent areas like Banana Island, Lekki, Eti-Osa, and Ikoyi, among others.
Osinaike vehemently condemned the audacious act of certain property owners and developers who boldly affix fake Physical Planning Permit Numbers on project boards. They intend to divert the attention of the authority’s enforcement team from scrutinizing the compliance of these structures with the Planning Permit Laws. Labeling this behavior as criminal, he issued a stern warning, declaring that any developer caught in the act would be promptly arrested and prosecuted.
Furthermore, Osinaike urged prospective property buyers to exercise caution and diligence by verifying the legitimacy of the properties they intend to purchase. He strongly advised consulting the authority to confirm the status of a property before proceeding with any transactions. This proactive measure will help potential buyers steer clear of fraudulent schemes and ensure that their investments are safe and legally compliant.
Highlighting the urgency of the situation, the general manager stressed that the intensive enforcement exercise had become imperative to curb the unlawful activities of developers who flout various Physical Planning Permit Laws. Instances of infractions include converting structures for uses other than those specified in the planning permits and disregarding the stipulations outlined in the granted permits, among others.
Expressing his disappointment, Osinaike commented, “Despite LASPPPA’s relentless efforts to raise awareness among Lagosians and relevant stakeholders, urging them to obtain Physical Planning Permits through the authority’s District Offices and Head Office, some individuals still choose the clandestine route. They engage touts who provide them with counterfeit Physical Planning permits.” This regrettable practice hampers the authority’s endeavors to maintain order and enforce regulations.
Vanguard reported that Mr. Iyiola Olarinde, the Head of the Monitoring and Enforcement Unit of LASPPPA, also shared his concerns about officials facing challenges when attempting to perform their statutory duties. He emphasized the ongoing appeal from LASPPPA to all residents of Lagos to visit the nearest district offices or the Head Office situated at Oba Akinjobi Way, GRA Ikeja, to obtain proper Planning Permits before embarking on any construction projects. By adhering to this advice, individuals can ensure compliance with the law and contribute to the development of a regulated and lawful urban environment.
The statement also highlighted an unfortunate incident during the enforcement exercise where the team encountered staunch resistance and was prevented from serving notices at Periwinkle Lifestyle Estate, located along Freedom Way, Ikate Lekki. This incident underscores the need for collective efforts to combat illegal practices and foster a culture of compliance with planning regulations.
Source: Vanguard
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