The Lagos State Government has sent a clear and firm message to residents of government-owned estates, stressing that violations of environmental rules and regulations outlined in their allocation letters will no longer be tolerated. The Ministry of Housing has recently received alarming reports about numerous infractions within various estates, including energy theft, neglect of shared facilities, non-payment of statutory dues, and bypassing the established infrastructure. These violations are not only damaging to the estate’s overall condition but also pose a threat to the well-being of all residents, particularly in estates like Lateef Kayode Jakande Estate in Igando, where the problem has become more prevalent.
Among the key issues, residents have been found bypassing electrical connections and tampering with installed systems, including the power supply and water systems, which are meant to serve everyone within the estate. Such acts of sabotage not only violate the estate’s rules but also pose significant safety risks and affect the reliability of services for everyone within the estate. The act of energy theft, for example, leads to overloading circuits and power instability, potentially causing damage to the estate’s electrical infrastructure, which is costly to repair.
Mr. Moruf Akinderu-Fatai, the Commissioner for Housing, addressed the situation during a recent briefing. He expressed the government’s deep concern over these actions, emphasizing that Lagos State has a zero-tolerance policy for any form of abuse of public resources, including estate facilities. “We will not accept situations where residents bypass and abandon existing infrastructure like water systems, electricity, and shared services, distorting the estate landscape,” he stated, highlighting the importance of respecting communal facilities and following the proper channels for usage.
The Commissioner also pointed out that the Lagos State Government has invested significantly in providing essential infrastructure in these estates, including electricity, water systems, waste management services, and general maintenance of common areas. However, the sustainability of these resources lies in the collective responsibility of residents. The government has urged that residents take ownership of their environment by properly maintaining the shared spaces and services within the estate.
In line with this, the government has appointed facilities managers who are tasked with overseeing the upkeep of these essential services. These managers are responsible for ensuring that communal areas, such as parks, roads, and shared utilities, are well-maintained. They are also charged with addressing any issues related to facility maintenance, repairs, and resource management. Residents are urged to cooperate with these managers to ensure that all issues are addressed in a timely and efficient manner, fostering a safe and comfortable environment for all.
Additionally, the Lagos State Government has reminded residents that part of their responsibility includes the timely payment of statutory dues. These dues are essential for maintaining the estate and keeping the facilities in good working order. Non-payment can lead to reduced resources for maintenance and contribute to the deterioration of shared services, affecting everyone in the estate.
The government’s call to action comes as a response to rising concerns over the sustainability of government estates in Lagos and the increasing strain on the resources available. By encouraging residents to respect the rules, pay their dues, and take care of the facilities, the Lagos State Government aims to promote a culture of responsible living in government estates, ensuring that the amenities provided are enjoyed by all and well-maintained for future generations.
In conclusion, the Lagos State Government is making a concerted effort to preserve the quality of life within government-owned estates through stringent enforcement of regulations and collaborative efforts with residents. By fostering a sense of collective responsibility and promoting environmental consciousness, the government aims to create sustainable, harmonious communities where residents can thrive.