LAGOS – The Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences Unit (Taskforce) on Monday launched a major enforcement operation along the Alaba Rago corridor on the Mile 2–Badagry Expressway, moving against illegal traders and occupants after the expiration of a 72-hour quit notice.
The exercise targets illegal street trading, makeshift structures and all forms of encroachment on highways, pedestrian walkways, road medians and setbacks in violation of the state’s environmental and urban planning laws.
The Taskforce said the operation, being carried out in collaboration with other relevant enforcement agencies, is aimed at restoring sanity, improving public safety, reducing traffic congestion and tackling environmental challenges along the busy Lagos–Badagry transport corridor.
Chairman of the Lagos State Taskforce, CSP Adetayo Akerele, said the enforcement followed extensive public sensitisation campaigns during which traders and other illegal occupants were advised to vacate the affected areas before the government’s deadline expired.
According to Akerele, the operation became necessary following persistent complaints from motorists, residents, pedestrians and environmental stakeholders over traffic obstruction, environmental degradation and security threats associated with illegal trading activities along the corridor.
He reiterated the Lagos State Government’s commitment to enforcing environmental laws, protecting public infrastructure and sustaining the standards of a modern megacity.
Akerele warned that all goods, makeshift structures and other illegal installations obstructing public spaces or violating existing regulations would be removed in line with the state’s environmental laws.
He added that the exercise is being supervised by the Lagos State Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources as part of the government’s continuous efforts to maintain a cleaner, safer and more orderly environment across the state.
