The Lagos government has warned owners of structures under power lines to remove them by Saturday before enforcement and legal action is taken against them.

This was announced in a statement by the Lagos State Building Control Agency 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,” said LASBCA.

It added, “The directive, which takes effect from 31st January 2025, is aimed at mitigating the risks associated with illegal constructions under power lines, including electrocution, fire outbreaks, and other environmental hazards.”

LSBCA general manager Gbolahan Oki said the directive was in line with the Lagos State Urban and Regional Planning and Development Law, which prohibits the construction of buildings and structures within restricted zones such as power line corridors.

He warned that failure to comply with government directives within the given period would lead to enforcement actions, including demolition and legal sanction.

Explaining that removing the illegal structures aims to prevent tragedies caused by electrical accidents, Mr Oki said, “High-tension power lines transmit electricity at extremely high voltages, and any structure within their designated clearance zone poses a serious threat to human lives.”

“Instances of electrocution, power surges, leading to fire outbreaks, and infrastructural damages have been recorded due to non-compliance with safety regulations.”

He urged property owners, developers, and residents to adhere strictly to building regulations by voluntarily removing any structure violating safety standards.