Acting in tandem with its one-week ultimatum, the Lagos State government has launched a decisive move to dislodge squatters residing under the Ijora bridge.
Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, said the LASG permitted the enforcement team from the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) to execute the operation as part of measures to address severe environmental abuse in the area.
Wahab emphasized the state government’s commitment to restoring order in the metropolis, stating, “The dislodgment exercise under the Ijora Bridge is a continuation of our unwavering commitment to restoring environmental sanity across the state.
“These illegal settlements pose serious health and safety risks and contribute significantly to the littering and defacement of public spaces. We will not tolerate such disregard for the environment of the state and the well-being of residents.”
He said the state’s actions serve as a strong warning to others considering similar steps as the government has vowed to protect the environment and ensure the well-being of all Lagosians, including those dislodged.
He also adds, “The state governor took an oath of office to safeguard lives and properties of over 22 million Lagosians; hence, the law has to be enforced without fear nor favour. It is a zero tolerance to all forms of infraction.”
Managing Director/CEO of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, stressed the agency’s commitment to establishing a cleaner and healthy environment adding that the dislodgement of the squatters under Ijora bridge is a crucial step in addressing environmental concerns in the area.
He noted, “We will continue to identify and address environmental challenges across the state, working tirelessly with the government to make Lagos a more environmentally sustainable city.”
