The recent embargo placed on application for change of building approvals by the Lagos State government is not only timely but will go a long way in stemming the incidence of building collapse which is rampant all over the state.
According to the State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Opeyemi Bamidele, the embargo became necessary in order to promote a conducive and habitable environment.
Considering the incessant and indiscriminate manner Lagosians convert their buildings for commercial and other uses, we consider the directive a welcome development and one that will go a long way in stemming cases of collapsed buildings in the state.
The relics of collapsed buildings and the tombstones of those that had perished in the incidents serve as a reminder that drastic measures needed to be taken to reduce the pains and agonies associated with such incidents.
Apart from coordinating physical developments and curtail the springing up of illegal buildings in the state which the commissioner also adduced for the embargo, it is our belief too that the embargo would serve to preserve the special features of the state.
A situation where, for monetary considerations only, owners of buildings contact developers to convert their otherwise dwelling places for commercial use does not only alter the physical features of the state but is also injurious to the health of residents.
The dust from the partial destruction of the buildings affect lungs of residents because developers do not take adequate care to contain its spread.
Visits to Victoria Island, Ikoyi, Allen Avenue, Idumota, Adeniji Adele and other parts of the state show that houses meant for residential purposes have been converted to commercial uses, leading to dislocation of families.
The conversion of residential houses for commercial purposes has also led to reduction in dwelling places and increase in the cost of accommodation.
Much as we commend the step taken by the government in this regard, we implore it to ensure effective implementation of the directive.
Officials of the relevant agency responsible for physical development in the state should be empowered to enforce the embargo so that it does not end up as one of those directives without official backing.
There is also the need to enlighten residents on this issue so that nobody will claim ignorance of the embargo.
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