Lagos govt issues 7-day ultimatum for removal of illegal structures under power lines 

The Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) shared the directive via its official X account, emphasizing its goal to reduce the risks associated with unauthorized constructions in these areas.

The announcement was made in a statement signed by Adu Ademuyiwa, Director of Public Affairs at LASBCA, on Monday.

“In a proactive move to safeguard lives and property, the Lagos State Government, through the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), has issued a seven-day ultimatum for the removal of  illegal  structures erected under high-tension and power lines across the state,” the statement read in part.

The statement emphasized that this line of action comes in response to the growing safety hazards posed by these structures, which include electrocution, fire outbreaks, and environmental damage.

The General Manager of LASBCA, Arc. Gbolahan Oki, reiterated that the construction of buildings and structures within power line corridors is prohibited under the Lagos State Urban and Regional Planning and Development Law.

Oki explained that high-tension power lines carry electricity at extremely high voltages, and any construction within their designated clearance zones endangers lives.

Oki also emphasized that the directive aligns with the Lagos State Government’s commitment to ensuring public safety, improving urban planning, and promoting environmental sustainability.

The State Urban and Regional Planning and Development Law prohibits the construction of buildings beneath overhead electricity wires. It also specifies the minimum distance that must be maintained between properties and electric power networks.

According to the law, the required setback distances are as follows:

For 0.415KV lines, a minimum of 6 metres must be maintained between a building and the center line of the overhead conductors.

In the case of a substation, the building should be at least 12 metres away from the substation’s property boundary.

These regulations are crucial in preventing safety hazards, such as electrocution and fire outbreaks, ensuring proper urban planning, and maintaining public safety.