The developers and the owners of the four-storey building situated beside the historic residence of the late legal icon and human rights crusader, Chief Gani Fawehinmi (SAN), have insisted that the structure was constructed following all necessary approvals and structural procedures as stipulated by the Lagos State Government.

This clarification comes on the heels of a protest staged on Friday by loyalists and associates of the late Fawehinmi, who raised alarm over what they described as a violation of building regulations.

The group alleged that the building did not maintain the mandatory three-metre setback from Fawehinmi’s property and demanded its demolition.

They also accused the developers of endangering the Fawehinmi family’s safety, claiming that a 1000-litre water tank atop the building had, on multiple occasions, fallen into the Fawehinmi compound.

Responding to the allegations during a press briefing on Sunday at the site, the Head of Projects at Nouveau Projects Ltd., Morakinyo Abolude, who spoke on behalf of the landowners and developers, debunked the claims, insisting that all statutory approvals were obtained before the commencement of construction.

Abolude presented documents to journalists, including an authorisation to commence construction issued by the Lagos State Building Control Agency on October 14, 2022, with SC No: LASBCA/ONG/22/STG/042, signed by the agency’s General Manager, Subair S.A.

Also displayed was a development permit issued by the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority, bearing Registration Number: IK2022/00/137/22 and Permit Number: DCB/00/2065/IK.

When our correspondent inspected the site, it was observed that while a view from outside the perimeter fence might suggest inadequate setback, a closer inspection inside the premises revealed that the structure had sufficient clearance.

Measurements of the building revealed in the approved building plan also showed that the ground floor is 15.268metre, while the first floor, extended by a cantilever design, achieved a 19.120metre.

Furthermore, during a tour of the building, it was confirmed that three 1000-litre water tanks placed on the rooftop were securely barricaded with iron reinforcements to prevent accidents.

Addressing the media, Abolude condemned the accusations as an attempt to intimidate the developers by exploiting the revered name of Chief Gani Fawehinmi.

He said, “We, the landowners in conjunction with our developers, have faced a barrage of unfounded publications and claims regarding this project. We are compelled to set the record straight and debunk the falsehoods aimed at stirring public sentiment against us.

 “It must be clearly stated that the construction did not encroach on the late Chief Gani Fawehinmi’s property, and contrary to rumours, it is not a hotel but strictly residential apartments, already fully occupied, and duly approved by the Lagos State Government.”

Abolude emphasised that they meticulously followed all regulatory procedures, securing the requisite building permits and undergoing stage-by-stage certifications from LASBCA throughout the construction.

He further disclosed that the Fawehinmi family had already instituted a lawsuit against the developers and the Lagos State Government, under Suit No. ID/12046GCMW/2024, which is pending before a competent court.

“It is therefore surprising that despite submitting the matter to judicial determination, they have resorted to media attacks and public campaigns instead of awaiting the court’s decision,” Abolude added.

On the claim that water tanks repeatedly fell into the Fawehinmi compound, Abolude described it as “baseless,” noting that in the course of construction, the developers had discovered that the perimeter fence separating both properties was structurally compromised.

Following discussions with the Fawehinmi family’s estate managers, the developers bore the cost of reconstructing a new and sturdier fence.

“We hold the late Chief Gani Fawehinmi SAN in the highest regard for his contributions to justice and equity. It is ironic that his name is now being used to suppress lawful and due processes. We appeal for an end to the harassment and for all parties to allow the law to take its natural course,” Abolude stated.

Meanwhile, the Lagos State Building Control Agency had confirmed that it is investigating the matter.

Speaking with Sunday PUNCH, LASBCA’s Public Relations Officer, Adu Ademuyiwa, said the agency had already visited the site, issued necessary notices, and directed the developers to address any identified contraventions.

“We have marked the site, served notices, and have given the developers a date to respond. LASBCA is fully on top of the matter,” he stated.