… says there are no sacred cows
The Kwara State Geographic Information Services (KWGIS) has reiterated the importance of obtaining proper land use approvals before commencing any development project in the state.
The agency emphasized that securing such approvals is a legal requirement and warned that any failure to comply would result in penalties.
KWGIS Executive Chairman, ESV AbdulKareem Babatunde Sulyman, in a statement on Saturday, stressed that the agency has been conducting public awareness campaigns on radio to educate residents on the necessity of obtaining approvals before starting any construction.
“This is a basic requirement. Where individuals or even government agencies overlook or neglect these legal provisions, we have a duty not only to halt such developments but also to impose appropriate fines,” he said.
Sulyman cited The Pavilion, a project under the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, as an example of a construction site that has not yet obtained the necessary approvals. He explained that all government projects—whether local, state, or federal—must secure these approvals before work begins.
“The Pavilion is a new construction, and appropriate approvals ought to have been sought before any work commenced. Since this has not been done, we have directed workers on site to comply with the necessary requirements before resuming work,” he stated.
The KWGIS chairman further noted that enforcing development control is essential for ensuring safety and compliance with urban planning regulations. He warned that the agency would not hesitate to take action against any illegal construction activities.
“At the moment, Peace Pharmaceutical along Asa Dam Bypass and HRA along Lubcon Road were carrying out large-scale construction without the required approvals. Both projects have been sealed off, and the developers have been directed to meet the legal requirements before continuing work,” he added.
KWGIS assured residents that its enforcement measures are in place to protect lives and property, ensuring that all developments in the state adhere to the necessary safety and regulatory standards.
