Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the governor of Lagos State, has cautioned landlords against raising rents in the Agboyi-Ketu Local Council Development Area (LCDA) of the state after new roads were constructed.
During the commissioning of Demurin, Agidi, and Church Streets in the LCDA on Thursday, the governor made this plea.
Speaking at the gathering, which was attended by local leaders, government representatives, and traditional rulers, Sanwo-Olu emphasized how the recently finished roads would affect local transportation and economic activity. He was pleased that the roads had been completed successfully and said that they would increase connection, reduce traffic, and improve the general well-being of the locals. However, he advised landlords not to use the development as an excuse to raise rents.
He had this to say: “Please do not increase your house rent because we are not doing this for you to put a burden on your tenants. The value of your property may have gone up, but I am begging you, do not use this as an opportunity to exploit tenants.”
The roads offer a strategic detour, cutting down on travel time between Alapere, Mile 12, and Ikorodu, the governor noted. Trips that used to take up to half an hour can now be finished in less than five minutes, he said.
BrandSpur Nigeria news today reports that in addition to assuring that more areas will profit from comparable initiatives, Sanwo-Olu reassured locals that his administration would keep funding road infrastructure throughout Lagos.
Mayor Dele Osinowo, the chairman of the Agboyi-Ketu LCDA, commended the Lagos State Government for repairing the roads, calling them a “game-changer” for the local economy.
He went on to say: “If you knew Demurin and Agidi roads a few years ago, you would understand why this project is a huge relief. These roads were in terrible condition and negatively impacted businesses. But today, thanks to Mr. Governor, the situation has changed.”
He urged landlords to hold off on raising rents right now, even though he acknowledged that the area’s enhanced infrastructure had increased property values.
Continuing, he said: “We will engage landlords through the Community Development Committees (CDCs) to discourage sudden rent hikes. We want the benefits of this development to be shared fairly among residents.”
Osinowo also listed ways to keep the roadways in good condition, such as prohibiting illegal parking and street commerce. He said: “We will partner with the Lagos State Government to ensure these roads remain in good condition. There will be penalties for those who block the walkways or park illegally.”
Retro Construction Limited and Regent Construction Limited were responsible for building the recently commissioned highways.
As stated by Engr. Olufemi Daramola, Special Adviser on Infrastructure, the project was carried out in two parts: Demurin Road was 1.6 km long, and Agidi Road was 750 m long. As a “strategic link” between Ikorodu and the Third Mainland Bridge via Alapere, Daramola explained, the project will shorten travel times and improve mobility for both locals and companies.
The Lagos State House of Assembly’s Kosofe II representative, Hon. Obafemi Saheed, also praised the governor for keeping his campaign pledge, saying: “With this road, you no longer need to pass through Ketu or Ojota to get to Ikorodu. From Alapere, you can go straight to Mile 12 and connect to Ikorodu with ease.”
