Across Lagos, Abuja, and Ogun State, the government has intensified efforts to demolish structures that violate physical planning, land use, and safety laws. While each case has its unique circumstances, several common reasons explain why properties are being demolished, and in some cases Certificate of Occupancy revoked:
1. Lack of Building Approvals and Permits
Many properties are demolished because they were built without the necessary approvals from urban planning authorities. In Lagos, for example, buildings that lack official planning permits—or deviate from their approved designs—are considered illegal. The Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) has routinely demolished such structures, even after issuing multiple stop-work and contravention notices. The same strict enforcement applies in Abuja, where the FCT Minister has made it clear: no permit, no mercy—regardless of how expensive the structure is.
2. Encroachment on Government or Restricted Land
Another major cause of demolition is building on land acquired or reserved by the government for public infrastructure—such as roads, railways, pipelines, or schools. Many buyers unknowingly purchase plots that fall under government acquisition, only to later find their homes or businesses marked for demolition. Such was the case in Ajao Estate (Lagos) and several areas in Ogun and Abuja where structures were cleared from airport and school lands, drainage channels, and other reserved corridors.
3. Structurally Unsafe Buildings
In the interest of public safety, buildings deemed “distressed” or at risk of collapse are also targeted. These structures may have been built with substandard materials or without professional supervision, making them vulnerable to failure. Authorities have no tolerance for unsafe buildings—especially in high-traffic areas like markets or residential estates—and will demolish them if owners fail to act after inspection notices.
4. Zoning and Master Plan Violations
City master plans dictate how land should be used—residential, commercial, green space, or infrastructure. Properties that violate these zoning rules (e.g., converting a home into a nightclub in a residential zone, or building on a drainage easement) can be removed to enforce proper urban development. Abuja’s Development Control Department and Lagos’ urban planning agencies have both demolished buildings for breaching approved land use plans.
5. Slum Clearance, Beautification, and Security Drives
In many cases, especially in Lagos and Ogun, informal settlements and roadside markets are cleared as part of urban renewal and beautification campaigns. These demolitions are often justified as efforts to eliminate crime, reduce flooding, or improve environmental health. However, they disproportionately affect vulnerable communities who may not have legal documentation.
6. Land Disputes and Legal Judgments
Some demolitions stem from contested ownership. Due to Nigeria’s complex land tenure system, two or more parties may claim the same property. In such cases, a court ruling might grant possession to another party, leading to enforced demolition. In other cases, titles are revoked by the government over non-payment of ground rent or breach of terms.
7. Perceived Political or Ethnic Targeting
Although difficult to prove, some demolitions are perceived to be politically or ethnically motivated. For instance, high-profile market demolitions or actions in opposition strongholds often raise suspicions of bias, which further undermines trust in the process.
How Trustcrow Helps You Avoid These Pitfalls
At Trustcrow, we understand how confusing and risky navigating the Nigerian property market can be—especially for first-time and diaspora buyers. That’s why we provide:
- Title Search Reports that reveal if a property is under government acquisition or encumbered.
- Professional Due Diligence Services to verify building approvals, land use designations, and compliance with planning laws.
- Pre-Purchase Guidance on zoning restrictions, setback requirements, and environmental hazards.
- Connections to verified developers, lawyers, and surveyors who understand local regulations and protect your investment.
With our support, you won’t just be buying a property—you’ll be buying peace of mind.
Let Trustcrow help you avoid buying into demolitions waiting to happen. Whether you’re building your first home or investing in rental units, our tools and experts ensure you only deal with safe, legal, and verified properties.
