Lagos State Government Issues 5-Day Removal Notice to Squatters in Lekki Coastal Road Area

The Lagos State Government, through its Environmental and Special Offences Unit (Taskforce), has issued a 5-day removal notice to squatters occupying illegal structures and shanties in Adewale Kolawale Street, Lekki coastal road, and its surrounding areas. The notice served on Saturday, demands the removal of all makeshift buildings and shanties, with demolition to follow if occupants fail to comply within the given timeframe.

CSP Shola Jejeloye, Chairman of the agency, conveyed the message via a statement from the Director of Public Affairs, Gbadeyan Abdulraheem. Jejeloye called upon owners of the unauthorized structures to immediately dismantle them and vacate the area by the specified deadline set by the state government.

Addressing traders, food vendors, and other squatters living in unhygienic conditions, Jejeloye emphasized the government’s intent to enforce the 5-day removal notice, which is set to expire on April 25, 2023. He explained that the decision to issue the notice was prompted by increasing pollution and a recent fire outbreak that almost led to the destruction of buildings on the opposite side of the street.

The Chairman expressed the government’s concerns over the unsanitary environment, which could potentially serve as a refuge for criminals posing a security threat to residents in the area and the broader community. He further stated, “The state government is committed to reducing crime to the barest minimum through clearing out criminal hideouts and ensuring that the environment is safe, serene, and habitable for all concerned.”

Jejeloye also highlighted that such shanties and illegal structures contribute to the indiscriminate disposal of waste materials, which is inconsistent with the state’s vision of achieving a Mega City Status. He warned owners of abandoned trucks, vehicles, shanties, and kiosks to remove them before the deadline’s expiration, noting that this was not the first notice of removal served to the occupants.

In conclusion, Jejeloye emphasized the Lagos State Government dedication to upholding a zero-tolerance policy on environmental abuse, illegal refuse dumping, and environmental degradation. He assured that the government would enforce the notice, saying, “I can assure you that the government will enforce this notice come next week Tuesday.”