Gbenga Ilemobayo
The Lagos State Government has held a stakeholders’ engagement on the proposed establishment of a cemetery along Babs Animashaun Street, Surulere.
The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, who spoke during the stakeholders’ meeting at Eko Club, Surulere, on Tuesday, emphasised the importance of inclusive dialogue in the physical planning process, saying, “It is important to carry everyone concerned along to ensure a balanced review of critical planning proposals.”
Olumide explained that the proposed cemetery was being considered to address the pressing need for a designated final resting place within Surulere, which currently has none.
He added that the initiative was in line with the state government’s policy of ensuring the equitable distribution of essential infrastructure, such as medical and other critical facilities, across all local government areas.
He further stated that locating the cemetery within the informal space along Babs Animashaun Street was permissible, given the state’s dense population, limited land availability, and adherence to international best practices.
“Lagos is growing exponentially within a defined land space and requires creativity and collective effort to address its planning needs,” the commissioner stated.
He urged stakeholders to objectively consider these factors and give the project a chance, as it would ultimately benefit the entire Surulere Local Government Area.
The Permanent Secretary, Office of Physical Planning, Oluwole Sotire, said that the essence of the engagement was to promote dialogue, address grey areas, and achieve mutual understanding among all parties.
He noted that the project proponents, Legacy Gardens, had revised the proposal to reflect stakeholders’ earlier observations, particularly concerns about underground water contamination, safety, and security.
The Project Manager, Mr. Olumide Amure, presented the key features of the proposed cemetery, including modern management facilities, street lighting, 24-hour security with CCTV surveillance, a strategic drainage system, and a 20-metre setback from surrounding buildings.
Risikat Bello and Sulaiman Raheem, both town planners, made a presentation on the factors guiding the ministry’s review of the proposal, while stakeholders at the meeting expressed diverse opinions both in support of and against the project.
Another stakeholders’ meeting has been fixed to hold in due course to allow for more discussions.
