The Lagos State Government has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to traders operating under the Apongbon Bridge and along drainage setbacks in Lagos Island to vacate the areas.
This directive is part of the state’s urban renewal initiative aimed at improving infrastructure and addressing environmental concerns.
Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, gave the order during an inspection of the Savage/Elegbata/Bombata Drainage Channel on Thursday.
A statement released by the ministry’s Director of Public Affairs, Kunle Adeshina, highlighted Wahab’s concerns about human activities in the area, which have contributed to flooding and posed risks to lives and property.
“I have instructed that shop and stall owners be served an abatement notice. We will clear these infractions and continue maintenance work while ensuring the contract is revised to include these two collectors,” Wahab stated.
Crackdown on Illegal Structures and Markets
The commissioner condemned the illegal conversion of spaces under the Apongbon Bridge into livestock markets and ordered the immediate relocation of traders to designated areas.
“What we witnessed is unacceptable. People have built structures on drainage setbacks and channels, making it impossible to maintain essential infrastructure,” he said.
He warned that if traders fail to comply within the stipulated time, enforcement actions will commence, stressing that environmental laws would be strictly upheld.
Officials will closely monitor compliance after the 48-hour deadline, with violators facing penalties.
Sealing of Illegal Construction Sites
During the inspection, two buildings under construction—one on Alakoro Martins Street and another in Ebute Ero Market—were sealed for improperly stacking construction materials on drainage systems.
“These buildings were sealed because their materials blocked the drainage system, which is illegal. The offenders must remove the obstructions and clear the drainage before their buildings can be unsealed,” Wahab stated.
Collaboration to Maintain Public Infrastructure
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to maintaining a cleaner Lagos, Wahab said the state would collaborate with local authorities to enforce environmental laws and sustain market spaces.
He urged residents and traders to refrain from dumping refuse and trading along drainage channels, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in preserving infrastructure.
Addressing concerns raised by the Lagos State House of Assembly about stolen manhole covers, Wahab revealed that the Ministries of Environment and Works are working together to tackle the issue.
Call for Public Cooperation
Special Adviser on Environment, Engr. Olakunle Rotimi-Akodu, encouraged traders to operate within designated market spaces and avoid defacing public areas.
He urged Lagosians to take responsibility for public infrastructure and support government efforts in ensuring a sustainable and healthy environment.
The inspection covered key locations, including Savage Lane, Cole Street, George Street, Abu Lane, Apongbon Underbridge, Olowogbowo, and Alakoro Martins Street.
Officials from the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), Lagos State Waste Management Office, and other relevant agencies were present during the exercise.
No comments:
Post a Comment