The Lagos State Government has ordered the demolition of the Article Shopping Complex in Satellite Town following safety concerns over the structural condition of the facility.
The government also issued a 14-day ultimatum to traders and property owners in Agric and Coker markets, located in Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government Area, to conduct structural integrity tests on buildings showing signs of distress.
The directive followed an inspection carried out by officials of the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) at the Article Shopping Complex in Oriade Local Council Development Area and the Agric and Coker markets in the Odun-Ade area.
According to the agency, several commercial buildings inspected were found to be structurally deficient and unsafe for continued occupation.
Officials said the state government would not tolerate the use of distressed buildings, stressing that the exercise forms part of ongoing efforts to prevent building collapses and protect lives and property across Lagos.
Occupants of the Article Shopping Complex have been directed to vacate the premises ahead of the planned demolition. During the enforcement exercise, an office building under construction within the weakened complex was also demolished.
The shopping complex had previously been marked for demolition and is located close to the site of a recent three-storey building collapse that claimed the lives of nine people.
The inspection further revealed varying degrees of structural defects in several buildings within Agric and Coker markets.
At Agric Market, officials examined a number of three-storey buildings occupied by traders dealing in building materials. Many of the structures were still being used despite previous warnings issued by the authorities.
Similar observations were made at Coker Market, where damaged buildings continued to accommodate commercial activities.
LASBCA directed owners of the affected buildings to submit the results of structural integrity assessments within 14 days, warning that failure to comply with the directive could attract enforcement measures and legal sanctions.
The Lagos State Government said the action underscores its commitment to tackling the recurring problem of building collapse and ensuring compliance with safety regulations across the state.
