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Open Appeal to Governor Sanwo-Olu: Addressing Challenges at Greater Lagos County Apartments, Surulere
Residents and investors of the Greater Lagos County Apartments located in Obele-Oniwala, Surulere, Lagos, have collectively voiced their concerns through an open letter addressed to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. The grievances center on the performance of Megamound Investment Limited, the private developer partnered with Lagos Building Investment Company (LBIC) on this ambitious housing project.
Background and Initial Optimism
The Greater Lagos County Apartments project, a public-private partnership, was launched with high hopes. Comprising 374 units of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, the estate is strategically positioned in a prime area of Surulere. The involvement of LBIC, a reputable government agency, initially inspired confidence among subscribers both locally and abroad.
Governor Sanwo-Olu’s presence at the commissioning ceremony on May 19, 2025, further fueled optimism. His vision for affordable and quality housing in Lagos State raised expectations that the project, which began in 2020, would soon deliver on its promises.
Persistent Issues Undermining Project Success
Regrettably, eight months post-commissioning, many residents report that the project remains incomplete and fraught with problems, largely attributed to Megamound Investment Limited’s inadequate execution. Key issues include:
- Electricity Supply Failure: Despite each subscriber paying ₦5 million for electricity infrastructure, including an independent gas and solar power plant, the estate remains without power.
- Water Supply Deficiency: Subscribers contributed ₦750,000 each for water connections, yet no functional water system exists. Residents have resorted to self-sourcing water, incurring additional monthly expenses between ₦60,000 and ₦100,000 for pumps, generators, and piping.
- Non-Operational Facility Management: The facility management team has not commenced duties, raising concerns about waste disposal, security, and overall estate maintenance.
- Environmental Hazards: A neglected canal adjacent to at least 12 apartment blocks borders the Lagos University Teaching Hospital staff quarters, where open defecation is prevalent. The canal remains uncleared, emitting foul odors that infiltrate residents’ living spaces.
Additional Concerns Impacting Residents’ Quality of Life
Subscribers have also highlighted other troubling aspects:
- Repeated Delays in Project Completion: Delivery timelines have shifted multiple times—from 2024 to 2025, and now projected for 2026. This contrasts sharply with the Exquisite Homes project in Iponri, also commissioned on May 19, 2025, which has been fully delivered with all utilities operational.
- Incomplete Finishing Works: Numerous apartment blocks suffer from defective door handles, missing staircase railings, and unfinished electrical fittings. The slow pace and apparent lack of customer focus from Megamound exacerbate frustrations.
- Misplaced Priorities: Despite full payments for services, Megamound continues to promote new off-plan projects within the estate and online, while neglecting existing obligations. Some residents have had to independently hire electricians and vendors to install air conditioning units and repair lighting fixtures.
Broader Implications and Call for Government Intervention
Similar complaints have emerged from residents of Megamound’s Lekki County Homes in Ikota, indicating a pattern of substandard service delivery. This situation undermines Lagos State’s commitment to excellence in housing and governance.
Attached to the letter are documented communications and photographic evidence supporting these claims. The residents invite officials from the Ministry of Housing and Lagos Building Investment Company to conduct on-site inspections to verify these issues firsthand.
In light of these challenges, the residents earnestly request Governor Sanwo-Olu’s intervention to hold Megamound accountable and ensure the completion and proper servicing of the Greater Lagos County Apartments. They believe that with decisive leadership, the project can be steered back on course, restoring confidence among investors and residents alike.
Conclusion
Expressing gratitude for the Governor’s attention, the residents reaffirm their hope that swift action will be taken to resolve these matters. As the popular saying goes, “Igbega ipinle Ekoo ti di ajumose fun gbogbo wa” — the progress of Lagos State is a collective responsibility.
Sincerely,
Concerned Subscribers and Residents of Greater Lagos County Apartments, Obele-Oniwala, Surulere, Lagos
