TheCable

Estate Plaza, Magodo Phase 2, Lagos state, is growing taller — after 17 years.

The shopping mall was a one-storey building in its previous life, but the owners have now decided to add one more floor, to accommodate more shops and, apparently, generate more revenue.

There is no sign at the site to show that construction is ongoing or that permits have been given by the Lagos state government for the height improvement surgery.

It is currently being painted.

Tall ambition: One more floor for the Estate Plaza, Magodo…

But after the Lekki Gardens disaster, leading to the collapse of a building under construction and claiming 30 lives in the process, Magodo Phase 2 residents are now asking questions about the growing status of the plaza, where hundreds shop everyday.

The plaza houses pharmacies, perfumery, supermarkets and salons, among others.

Two floors were allegedly added illegally to the collapsed building at Lekki against professional advice, and Magodo residents are now whispering about the legality of the additional construction work at the plaza.

The owner, rumoured to be a powerful politician, obviously has tall ambitions, but many construction experts and Magodo residents would think it is the height of impunity.