Officials of the Lagos State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development on Monday sealed off a hotel under construction on Musari Apena Street in the Mafoluku area of Oshodi, following complaints by residents over alleged zoning violations and public nuisance.
The enforcement action came days after concerned residents submitted a formal petition to the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, raising objections to what they described as the unlawful conversion of a residential property into a commercial hospitality facility.
In the petition, the residents alleged that the ongoing development had led to multiple infractions, including contravention of zoning regulations, unregulated construction activity, persistent noise pollution, poor waste management, and increased traffic congestion in the area.
A copy of the petition reads: “We bring to your attention the activities of an unlawful hotel development causing injurious harm to the lives of residents.
“This development flagrantly violates zoning and land-use regulations designed to safeguard our community, thereby posing severe threats to safety, the environment, and overall well-being.
“The hotel’s operations have caused significant disruptions, including relentless noise pollution, parking issues, and waste management problems. The developer has shown no commitment to mitigating these issues, undermining Town Planning Laws and Regulations and emboldening future violations.”
In response to the mounting public outcry, state officials conducted a site inspection and ordered the temporary closure of the facility pending further investigation.
However, the owner of the property, Mr. Adetunji Soboyede, who operates the business under the name Expectant Hotel and Lounge, dismissed the allegations, insisting that his establishment complies with regulatory standards.
“I have obtained the necessary approvals for commercial use. The use of this space has officially changed from residential to commercial,” Soboyede said.
He noted that the project is still in its early stages, having commenced about a month ago, and assured that measures were in place to limit potential disturbances to the neighbourhood.
“We have installed noise-proof doors, paid all required fees, and I’ve spent over ₦39 million on this project. As a business owner, I am committed to following the law and contributing to the community,” he added, highlighting that the hotel has already provided employment to over 30 people.
