Key Points:
- Lagos team pulled down at least 19 plaza blocks. They said the sites broke core plan rules.
- Crews cleared road setbacks and blocked drains across the zone. They worked under tight armed cover all day.
- Traders cried as steel fell and dust rose. Many feared huge cash loss from the sweep.
Lagos officials demolished at least 19 buildings today. The raid hit New Mandela Plaza inside the Trade Fair Complex. Officials said the sites broke plan rules and blocked drains. Crews used tools as crowds watched in shock.
The action began this morning, September 25, in light rain. A joint team led the sweep with tight armed cover. The move aimed to clear risky builds and road setbacks. Shop owners cried while dust rose and steel fell.
Agencies move in with tight security
The Urban Development team led core field checks on site. The Ministry of Physical Planning joined the large field crew. LASBCA then moved in with trucks and engineers. LASURA and LASPPPA backed the checks and gave guidance. The Office of Infrastructure joined with their own tech staff. Members of the Lagos House of Assembly walked the route.
Meanwhile, a ring of armed officers held the street line. They kept crowds back while machines hit weak walls. In addition, some shops shut fast as debris flew. Recent city talk on order rose after a Lagos apology row.
Traders count losses and demand clear rules
A trader cried as crews hit the plaza blocks. He said each block cost over ₦150 million. He feared ruin for firms who saved for years. He begged for clear rules on builds in the area.
He told reporters, “If the state rejects firms here, say so.” He added, “We poured life savings into this place.” He said, “Over nineteen blocks stand in this one plaza.” Later on, friends held him as the crew pulled more steel.
In addition, workers packed goods while walls came down fast. Some called family to move stock from the lane. Others blamed lax permits and sharp site deals in the past. On policy, Rabiu’s naira strengthens forecast stirred wider reform debate.
Officials kept the sweep tight and spoke to press on site. They vowed to keep checks on drains and setbacks. They warned that unsafe builds would face the same fate. For now, the plaza crowd waits for the next call.
