The developers and owners of the four-storey building located beside the late Chief Gani Fawehinmi’s historic residence have said that the structure was built with full government approvals and in strict compliance with Lagos State building regulations.
This statement comes after loyalists and associates of the late legal icon staged a protest on Friday, alleging that the building violated setback rules and endangered the Fawehinmi family’s safety. They demanded that the structure be demolished, claiming that a 1000-litre water tank from the building had fallen into the Fawehinmi compound multiple times.
However, speaking during a press briefing at the site on Sunday, the Head of Projects at Nouveau Projects Ltd., Morakinyo Abolude, who represented the landowners and developers, debunked the allegations.
Abolude presented documents to journalists, including a construction approval from the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) dated October 14, 2022, and a development permit issued by the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority. Both documents confirmed that the building followed due process.
When our correspondent inspected the site, it was noticed that although the building looked close to the Fawehinmi property from outside, inside measurements showed a proper setback. According to the approved plans, the ground floor measures 15.268 metres and the first floor, built with a cantilever design, extends to 19.120 metres.
A tour of the building also revealed that the rooftop water tanks, each holding 1000 litres, were properly barricaded with iron reinforcements.
Abolude described the allegations against the developers as attempts to intimidate them by using Chief Fawehinmi’s name to sway public sentiment.
He said, “We, the landowners and developers, have faced several unfounded claims regarding this project. We have complied with all regulatory processes. The building is not a hotel but strictly residential apartments, already fully occupied, and approved by the Lagos State Government.”
He explained that the construction was supervised stage-by-stage by LASBCA officials and that necessary certifications were obtained at every phase.
Abolude also disclosed that the Fawehinmi family had already taken the matter to court under Suit No. ID/12046GCMW/2024, adding that it was wrong for them to resort to public protests while the case is pending.
On the issue of falling water tanks, Abolude said it was baseless, noting that during construction, it was discovered that the original fence between both properties was weak. After discussions with the Fawehinmi estate managers, the developers paid for a stronger replacement fence.
“We have great respect for the late Chief Gani Fawehinmi SAN. It is unfortunate that his legacy is being used to attack us unfairly. We urge everyone to allow the court process to determine the matter,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Lagos State Building Control Agency has confirmed that it is investigating the case.
