Retired Naval Officer Writes Sanwo-Olu over Illegal Sale of Green Areas
Rear Admiral Ibikunle Olaiya (retd.) has petitioned Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu over the illegal sale of green areas near Block 113, Lekki Phase 1, by unscrupulous Lagos government officials, which violates the original master plan, which reserved the space for essential public infrastructure.
Olaiya, in separate letters to Governor Sanwo-Olu and Commissioner for Environment Tokunbo Wahab, for himself and on behalf of concerned Lagosians and residents in the Lekki axis, said it is a matter of grave concern that the green areas have been allocated to someone who has begun construction.
Titled ‘Urgent attention needed: Illegal sales of Green Areas near Block 113, Lekki Phase 1’ and dated April 26, 2024, Olaiya claimed the areas were allegedly sold for personal gains.
Olaiya said, “Despite designated green spaces intended for essential infrastructural development, such as road and drainage expansions, and the construction of a light train to accommodate the growing population, these areas are being unlawfully sold for personal gain. It is disheartening to witness such actions, particularly considering the significant investments and efforts made in the Lekki-Epe axis over the years.
He added, “Your administration’s commitment to infrastructure development, education, and the preservation of the state’s original master plan has been commendable.
“However, it is troubling to see certain individuals tarnish these efforts by engaging in illegal allocations, especially under your watch as a surveyor by profession.”
Citing the survey plan of Block 113 as evidence, the petitioner implored the governor to address the issue with the seriousness it deserves.
In the letter to the commissioner, he warned that there could be grave consequences in future “if this illegality is allowed to thrive and the good actions of the Lagos state government to demolish houses built on canals and setbacks would be difficult to justify.”
The petitioner wondered why this should be occurring despite the existence of regulatory establishments like the Ministry of Physical Planning and the New Town Development Agency, which are tasked with overseeing development in the area.
Before the recent letters, he had, through his lawyer, Abosede Akande of Law Corporate, petitioned the governor, Ministry of Environment, Ministry of Physical Planning, Ministry of Lands, and police authorities, explaining that the green areas were designated for future road expansion and erosion management.