Lagos State authorities have sealed Expectant Hotel and Lounge in Mafoluku, Oshodi, following protests by residents over noise pollution, waste issues, and traffic congestion caused by the facility.
The Lagos State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development led the enforcement after residents of Musari Apena Street submitted a petition complaining that the hotel was illegally developed in a residential area.
In the petition addressed to the ministry’s commissioner, the residents accused the hotel of violating zoning rules. They wrote, “This development flagrantly violates zoning and land-use regulations designed to safeguard our community, thereby posing severe threats to safety, the environment, and overall well-being.”
They also said the hotel caused constant noise, poor waste disposal, and parking problems. “The developer has shown no commitment to mitigating these issues, undermining Town Planning Laws and Regulations,” the petition read.
However, the hotel owner, Adetunji Soboyede, defended his business, insisting that all activities were within legal boundaries. He said, “The use of this space has now changed from residential to commercial, and I have all the documents to show it was approved for commercial use.”
He added, “We have installed noise-proof doors. As a business owner, I have tried to follow all the regulations. I have spent over N39 million to build this place and have also paid all necessary fees.”
Soboyede claimed the hotel had also contributed to the community by employing over 30 people. He noted that the process of converting the space for commercial use was still ongoing, having started just about a month ago.
