Lagos State Government seals off Tony Rapu’s church
The Lagos State Government has allegedly approved the sealing of a Lekki-based Church, christened ‘The Dome’ in Lekki Phase 1, for violating building regulations. The church which is headed by popular pastor, Dr. Tony Rapu. According to a statement by the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Anifowoshe Abiola, the owners of the church contravened the Lagos State Regional and Urban Planning Law 2010 by building without title documents and necessary building permits.
The commissioner stated that the church had no Planning permit to construct the building adding that the fence of the church fence was in the right of way of Freedom Road (which is currently under construction) and also directly under the high-tension wires.
The statement reads in part:
“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 further said 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.
It emphasized the government’s position against illegal development of buildings and warned owners against building without planning approval.
Source: The Nation
