Homebuyers urged to verify estate approvals to avoid financial loss
The Lagos State Government has issued a final warning to estate developers operating without approved layout plans, threatening heavy fines and demolition for those who fail to comply.
The announcement came from Oluyinka Olumide, Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, via the official X account of the Lagos State Government on Wednesday.
This latest notice follows the expiration of a previously granted grace period, during which flagged estates were expected to regularise their planning documents.
Some estates, however, continue to operate in violation of state planning regulations, prompting the government to set a final one-week deadline for compliance.
“The Lagos State Government has issued a final warning to estate developments operating in the state without approved layout plans,” the statement read.
“The Commissioner reiterated that the one-week warning marks the last opportunity for erring estates to submit their layout plans and secure necessary approvals. After the deadline, appropriate sanctions ranging from hefty fines to demolition will be applied, depending on the severity of each infraction.”
Public Urged to Exercise Due Diligence
The government also cautioned homebuyers to verify the planning status of any estate before making financial commitments, emphasizing that proper due diligence is crucial to avoid losses.
During enforcement exercises, officials visited estates including Whiteoak Estate 2 and Elite Garden Estate, both behind VGC and developed by Bosmark Haven Properties.
The Lagos State Government stressed its commitment to enforcing planning regulations and promoting structured urban development across the state.
Background: Illegal Estates Identified Earlier This Year
In August 2025, the government identified 176 estate developments in areas such as Eti-Osa, Ajah, and Ibeju-Lekki as illegal, having operated without the required layout approvals. Developers were given 21 days to begin the regularisation process. Those who failed to meet this requirement are now the focus of the final warning.
Proper layout approval ensures that estates are developed according to planning regulations, protects homebuyers from financial losses, and prevents disputes over land use and property rights.
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