The gates to Banana Island, located in the Ikoyi area of Lagos State, were closed on Tuesday, leading to severe traffic congestion along the Lekki-Ajah axis and parts of Ikoyi. This unexpected shutdown has left residents and visitors stranded, with long vehicle queues stretching across the estate.
Speculations have swirled that the closure may be related to the government’s planned demolition of illegal structures on the island, particularly the Banana Club House. This theory gained momentum following a viral video showing frustrated drivers and security personnel manning the estate’s gates.
While several conflicting reports have emerged, it remains unclear which government agency is behind the closure. Some reports suggest federal agencies are involved, while others claim state government bodies are responsible.
A broadcast message circulating on Tuesday claimed that a Lagos State government agency had shut the gates, restricting both residents and visitors from entering or leaving the estate. One user on X (formerly Twitter) expressed frustration, saying: “We love suffering in this country. So because government officials dey Banana Island, no car fit go in or out of the estate until they are gone? They have successfully created another crazy traffic that will affect Lekki and part of Ikoyi.”
In response, Adu Ademuyiwa, the spokesperson for the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LABSCA), denied any involvement in the shutdown. He emphasized that LABSCA officials were not present at the scene and had not authorized any gate closures. Ademuyiwa further explained that any future demolitions related to illegal buildings would be communicated publicly in advance.
The Lagos State Building Control Agency is currently focused on demolishing illegal structures across the state. General Manager Gbolahan Oki had previously discussed similar actions in areas like Abule Egba, Iya Niba, and Iyana Isheri, where buildings violating urban planning regulations were removed. The agency’s commitment to enforcing building codes includes targeting structures under high-tension power lines and in restricted shoreline zones.
As of now, the cause behind the closure of Banana Island’s gates remains a mystery, with authorities yet to clarify the situation. However, the ongoing traffic disruption and confusion over government involvement highlight the broader challenges of urban planning and enforcement in Lagos.
