A businessman and politician, Kelvin Gabriel, has raised concerns over construction activities around his property on Glover Road, Ikoyi, Lagos, alleging that the development had affected his property and raised environmental and safety concerns.
He claimed that construction work on a the neighbouring property had extended close to his compound, a development he said had caused inconvenience to his family.
According to him, construction materials had, on some occasions, fallen into his compound, allegedly damaging parts of his building and some of his vehicles.
He said the vehicles were subsequently taken for repairs, adding that the incident had resulted in additional expenses.
He also raised concerns about the distance between the neighbouring development and his property, saying he understood that planning regulations provide for prescribed setbacks and air spaces for buildings.
Lagos State regulations stipulate requirements relating to setbacks and air spaces, while building developments are also subject to planning permits and building-control procedures.
Gabriel said he initially contacted the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) over his concerns and was subsequently directed to the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA).
He said an inspection was later carried out and the property under construction was sealed by the relevant authority, but alleged that the seal was subsequently removed.
He further said his efforts to obtain clarification from the authorities had yet to resolve the matter, adding that the ongoing construction had affected his family’s ability to comfortably use their property.
LASBCA had previously cautioned that construction activities in Lagos are subject to planning permits, authorisation to commence construction and compliance with approved plans, setbacks and other building-control requirements.
The agency had also appealed to members of the public to report suspected building-control infractions for investigation.
