The Lagos State Government has started demolishing over 100 illegal shanties under the Adeniji-Adele bridge, following the expiration of a 48-hour removal notice served on occupants. This was announced by the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, on Monday.
According to Wahab, the joint task force of the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC) and the Lagos State Environment and Special Offences team, carried out the removal of the shanties and makeshift structures. This move is part of the government’s efforts to tackle illegal structures and address environmental and security concerns in the area.
The shanties, which were built under the bridge, were being used as makeshift apartments, with tenants paying N250,000 per annum. The state government had earlier discovered 86 partitioned rooms, measuring 10×10 and 12×10, being rented out by suspected gang leaders.
Last week, the government vowed to arrest the suspected gang leaders and intensify efforts to address the issue. The removal of the shanties is a significant step in this direction, as it aims to restore the area to its original state and prevent further environmental and security hazards.
The demolition exercise is expected to continue until all the illegal structures are removed, and the area is restored to its original state. The Lagos State Government has reiterated its commitment to maintaining a clean and secure environment for all citizens.
