The Lagos State Government has announced plans to remove over 100 shanties situated at Adeniji Adele underbridge starting from Monday, May 6, 2024. This decision was revealed by the State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr Tokunbo Wahab, during an interview with newsmen on Sunday.
Mr Wahab stated, “The Lagos State Government will undertake enforcement action to remove over 100 shanties at Adeniji Adele underbridge from tomorrow, Monday, 6th of May, 2024.” He emphasized that this action follows the expiration of a 48-hour removal notice served on all occupants of the shanties to vacate the premises along with their belongings.
The operation will involve operatives from the Kick Against Indiscipline and officials from the Monitoring Enforcement and Compliance department of the ministry, with security backup provided. Wahab highlighted that this exercise aligns with the state government’s commitment to reclaiming all ungoverned spaces in Lagos.
Citing the unsanitary conditions and the shanties’ use as hideouts for criminals and drug peddling, Wahab urged occupants to voluntarily relocate before the enforcement operations commenced. He emphasized the importance of ensuring the well-being of law-abiding residents and combating criminal activities.
Furthermore, Wahab referenced a recent similar exercise carried out in Ikoyi, where structures including a container utilized for illegal activities were removed from beneath the Dolphin Estate Bridge. Commissioner for Information, Gbenga Omotosho, noted that out of the 450 squatters arrested under the bridge, 371 requested relocation to their respective states.