The Lagos State Ministry of Environment and Water Resources has announced plans to demolish illegal market structures and shanties around the Cele Underbridge area.
This statement was made by the Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, following an inspection of drainage enforcement operations at the site on Wednesday.
During the inspection, Wahab expressed concerns over the illegal activities occurring around the bridge, describing the markets and shanties as a significant societal problem.
He disclosed that the ministry had received multiple complaints about criminal activities under the bridge, including illegal trading and construction of shanties.
“Last year, we received numerous complaints about criminal activities taking place both on and under the pedestrian bridge. These activities went beyond just illegal markets. People had begun constructing shanties in the area, exacerbating environmental and safety issues.
Furthermore, their waste was being dumped into the nearby canal system, System 6C,” Wahab said.
The commissioner highlighted the disappointing findings from a full assessment of the area.
He emphasized that while the ministry understood the need for markets, they must be situated in designated areas.
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“Markets, shanties, and stores cannot be built on drainage channels. If this happens, we have no choice but to remove everything,” Wahab added.
The ministry had issued notices to the occupants of the illegal markets and structures last week, and Wahab mentioned that further engagement would take place in the coming hours.
He indicated that the removal of the structures should be completed by the weekend.
Wahab also addressed the ongoing issue of drainage blockages, noting that human activity in the area has contributed significantly to the problem. “Plans are in place this year to address drainage maintenance, but it’s not enough just to clear the drainage. The ongoing illegal activities such as dumping waste need to stop for any long-term solution to work.”
Regarding the construction of a proper market for the traders, Wahab stated that it was the responsibility of the local government.
However, he expressed confidence that the local authorities would fulfill this obligation, especially with direct allocations from the Federal Government for such projects.
“The local government should effectively use these funds to set up proper market facilities,” Wahab concluded.
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