A church located on Freedom Way, Lekki Phase 1, belonging to Pastor Tony Rapu has been sealed off by the Lagos state government for violating building regulations and for being erected without title documents and requisite building permit.
The church known as This Present House, yet christened ‘The Dome’ is said to have contravened the Lagos State Regional and Urban Planning Law 2010.
The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development in Lagos, Anifowoshe Abiola, said in a statement that the church has no Planning Permit to embark on such a massive construction without due process.
He added that the church’s fence was standing in the Right of Way of Freedom Road (currently under construction) and also directly under the high-tension wires.
Abiola averred that the government would not fold its arms and watch a brazen contravention of the law that could endanger the lives and property of residents.
His words, “While government appreciates citizens’ rights to freedom of worship, the law stipulates a minimum of 15meter setback from the high tension wire to the property line. This church neglected and has refused to comply with the Statutory Notice served, as such the State Government must protect its citizens in order to mitigate against avoidable disasters.”
The statement reiterated the position of government against illegal development and warned owners or developers against building without planning approval.
It further stated that the government has given a 30-day ultimatum to owners/developers of buildings without planning permit to comply with the state planning laws to avoid sanction.
The commissioner called on Lagos residents to show understanding and cooperation, stressing that the implementation of the planning laws is for the benefit everyone in the state.
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