The Lagos State Government has taken a decisive step to tackle the growing problem of illegal shanties and markets under the Cele/Itire Bridge. This directive, issued by the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, came after an inspection of the System 6 (Odo Asimawu) and 6c (Cele-Ijesha) drainage systems, revealing unsanitary conditions and illegal settlements that were rapidly growing in the area.
The inspection, which was documented in a 54-second video posted on the official Lagos State Government’s social media handle, showed a disorganized scene beneath the bridge. Makeshift stalls were scattered throughout the area, with vendors selling items related to food preparation, creating not only a health hazard but also contributing to the clogged drainage systems. Along with the stalls, numerous wooden shanties were observed, where people were living in dire conditions, further exacerbating the area’s sanitation issues. The video also highlighted cows being reared next to the bridge, illustrating the extent of the disorder.
Commissioner Wahab gave a stern order to clear the entire area under the Cele/Itire Bridge, instructing that the space be freed from end to end. This action is part of the state government’s ongoing efforts to address environmental concerns caused by illegal settlements in various parts of Lagos. It also aims to restore order and improve the sanitary conditions of the area, which have long been a source of concern for local residents.
The Lagos State Government’s move is not an isolated incident but part of a broader strategy to clear illegal shanties across the city. Similar operations have taken place in other areas, such as beneath the Eko Bridge, where 54 illegal shanties were dismantled in November 2024, and the Dolphin Estate Bridge in May 2024, where 86 makeshift apartments were cleared. These enforcement actions aim to curb illegal settlement growth and reduce the risks posed by unhygienic living conditions under bridges and public spaces.
In addition to the removal of these illegal structures, the government has announced plans to transform the cleared spaces into public-use facilities, partnering with the private sector to make these areas safer, more organized, and beneficial to the wider community. The government’s goal is to improve the overall quality of life for Lagos residents by creating cleaner, more functional spaces that are not hindered by illegal activities.
The Lagos State Government’s efforts reflect its commitment to maintaining a cleaner, safer, and more organized environment for its citizens, as it continues to address issues caused by informal settlements and the lack of regulation in certain parts of the city. These actions are essential to ensuring public health, safety, and the overall betterment of Lagos as a thriving metropolis.