By Femi Akinola
In an effort to address environmental concerns, the Lagos State Government has issued a five-day ultimatum to all occupants under the Ijora Causeway bridge to vacate the area.
Failure to comply may result in the demolition of shanties and the confiscation of belongings by the State Government.
The quit notice was delivered during an unscheduled visit by a team of state officials led by the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab.
The under-the-bridge occupants, consisting mainly of buyers and sellers of petroleum products, block makers, yellow mini-bus drivers, and a few individuals engaging in illicit activities, were addressed by Wahab.
He condemned the various activities taking place under the bridge, citing them as both environmental nuisances and security threats to the Blue Line rail service along the corridor.
Wahab stated emphatically, “The State Government cannot tolerate this. We will not allow you people to continue occupying under any bridge in Lagos for any purpose. We will not allow this to continue.”
Additionally, a 24-hour ultimatum was given to those dealing in petroleum products under the bridge, presumed to be the owners of various vehicles and trucks parked in the area.
During the visit, the Commissioner took the opportunity to caution law enforcement agents against initiating enforcement of the three-week ultimatum given to manufacturers, distributors, and sellers of banned Styrofoam packs until the expiration of the stipulated period.
Wahab emphasized that the three-week window provides ample time for the stakeholders involved in the banned product to deplete their existing stock before enforcement commences.
This move by the Lagos State Government underscores its commitment to environmental sanitation and safety, urging compliance from various sectors for a cleaner and more secure living environment.
