The Lagos State government has assured residents of the state that it will do everything possible to put an end to activities of fraudulent property developers and agents, and also prosecute those responsible for reported cases of building collapse.
Toke Benson-Awoyinka, Special Adviser to Lagos State Governor on Housing, gave the assurance while delivering a keynote address at the 31st Lagos Builders’ Conference of the Nigerian Institute of Building with the theme: ‘The Shifting Landscape: Redefining The Real Estate Industry’ held in Lagos.
Benson-Awoyinka said the good reputation of the real estate industry in the state must be sustained despite the incidences of building collapse and fraudulent and unprofessional practices in the real estate market.
She said the ultimate goal of the state government was to create a conducive environment through a reliable and effective regulatory system.
She said this was to ensure that all players in the built sector complied with established standards and code of conduct at both State and Local Government levels.
“I must acknowledge and make reference to several reported cases of building collapse in the state and series of fraudulent cases of property developers and agents defrauding prospective tenants.
“These trends are unprofessional in the real estate industry and we are determined to uncover the roots of these happenings and bring the culprits to book.
“To eradicate these malpractices in the real estate sector in Lagos, all hands must be on deck,” she said.
According to her, the economic growth and development of any nation or state can be redefined by the success of the real estate industry that complies with global best practices.