The Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences (Enforcement) Unit (Taskforce) has stopped an illegal street party that blocked part of Lawani Street, off University Road, Yaba, preventing a major traffic gridlock.
The Chairman of the taskforce, CSP Adetayo Akerele, disclosed this in a statement signed by the agency’s spokesperson, Abdulraheem Gbadeyan on Sunday in Lagos.
Akerele said public roads were not meant to serve as event centres, warning residents against converting them into venues for private celebrations.
According to Akerele, organisers of a private anniversary celebration had unlawfully cordoned off an entire lane of the road, which currently serves as a critical alternative route due to ongoing construction on an adjoining road.
He said the illegal occupation of the roadway significantly impeded the free flow of traffic and caused inconvenience to motorists and other road users.
The chairman said that task force acted on credible intelligence by immediately deploying enforcement officers to the scene.
“The operatives dismantled the illegal barricades and confiscated canopies, chairs, tables and other items used to obstruct the public roadway, thereby restoring normal traffic flow,” he said.
Akerele condemned the growing practice of using public roads for private celebrations, saying no individual had the right to obstruct public infrastructure for personal events at the expense of the public.
He warned organisers of such gatherings and others who deliberately obstructed roads for social events to desist, advising them to use designated event centres or obtain the necessary approvals where applicable.
“Public roads are constructed for the benefit of all Lagosians and must not be converted into private event spaces.
“Anyone found obstructing traffic or blocking public roads for social activities will face the full weight of the law.
“We will not tolerate actions that disrupt public order or frustrate the daily livelihood of residents,” Akerele said.
He further appealed to residents to remain vigilant and continue supporting the agency by reporting activities capable of endangering public safety, obstructing road networks or degrading the environment.
He urged residents to make such reports through 09137555111 and 09138555111 or via the agency’s social media handles.
Akerele reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to enforcing extant laws and maintaining order, safety and sanity across the state in line with the vision of the Lagos State Government.
