Lagos goes tough on estate facility violations

By Maduka Nweke

The Lagos State Government has issued a clear warning to residents of government-owned estates, urging them to uphold the maintenance standards outlined in their allocation letters. The government expressed concern over a growing disregard for estate regulations, stressing that non-compliance undermines the functionality and sustainability of the shared infrastructure.

In recent months, the Ministry of Housing has been inundated with reports of various contraventions, including energy theft, neglect of shared facilities, and the refusal to pay statutory estate dues. These infractions, according to the government, not only compromise the quality of living in the estates but also pose significant risks to residents and the integrity of the infrastructure.

Commissioner for Housing, Mr. Moruf Akinderu-Fatai, delivered the warning following an enforcement exercise at the Lateef Kayode Jakande Estate in Igando, where some residents were caught engaging in energy theft. Reports indicated that several occupants had bypassed their installed electrical connections, effectively stealing electricity in violation of regulations.

Akinderu-Fatai condemned the practice, emphasizing that the government would not tolerate deliberate sabotage of essential infrastructure. He stated, “The Ministry of Housing will not accept situations where residents choose to bypass and abandon existing infrastructure such as the water system, electricity, and other shared services. It is unacceptable for individuals to distort the estate’s landscape by installing personal solutions in an uncoordinated manner.”

The Commissioner also criticized residents who tampered with apartments previously sealed due to regulatory breaches, warning that such actions would attract severe consequences. While some residents pleaded for leniency, he reiterated that the government would no longer condone violations in any of its estates.

The Lagos State Government reaffirmed that all government-owned estates are equipped with necessary facilities to ensure comfortable living. However, residents are responsible for their upkeep through the facility managers appointed by the state government. Akinderu-Fatai reminded residents that every estate was designed to foster communal living and that resident representatives must be supported in their efforts to maintain the estates’ shared amenities.

He urged allottees to embrace a sense of responsibility, comply with established rules, and contribute to sustaining the estates’ long-term viability.

“These estates were created to provide decent and structured living environments. Residents must understand that adherence to the rules is crucial to maintaining the quality and sustainability of these communities,” he added.

The Lagos State Government reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing compliance and ensuring that government-owned estates remain orderly, functional, and conducive for all residents.