12 hotels, shopping complexes shut in Lagos over elevator safety violations

At least 12 facilities, including hotels, shopping complexes, and residential buildings, have been shut down by the Lagos State Government over repeated violations of lift and elevator safety regulations. 

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The affected properties are located in key areas such as Admiralty Way in Lekki Phase 1 and parts of Ikeja. 

The enforcement exercise, carried out last Thursday, April 30, was led by the Lagos State Safety Commission. 

In a statement released on Sunday, the commission said the action followed persistent non-compliance by several property owners and operators with mandatory lift and elevator safety requirements. 

It explained that the affected buildings failed to register their lift systems with the state government for proper inspection, maintenance, and safety oversight. 

Leading the enforcement team, the Commission’s Chief Scientific Officer, Sovi Tijani, who represented the Director-General, Lanre Mojola, said the crackdown became necessary due to continued disregard for regulatory directives. 

He noted that proper registration of elevators is critical for routine inspections and ensuring the safety of users in both commercial and residential buildings. 

According to him, the affected facilities had received multiple notices and reminders but did not comply within the stipulated timeframe.

“We duly served them notices, informing them of the need to comply before the expiration of the deadline, but they failed to do so. 

“Some refused to acknowledge or collect the letters from our officials, while others attempted to obstruct our personnel during enforcement,” Tijani said. 

Tijani emphasised that the commission would sustain its enforcement efforts to safeguard lives and property, warning that poorly maintained elevators pose serious risks. 

The commission urged building owners and facility managers to comply with safety regulations by registering their lift systems and ensuring regular maintenance in line with government standards. 

It reiterated its commitment to enforcing compliance and maintaining a safe environment, adding that defaulters would continue to face sanctions until all requirements are met.