To maintain Lagos State’s Mega City status and uphold environmental decorum, the Lagos State Taskforce has taken action to expel illegal street traders from Alade Avenue, Orishe Street, and Johnson Street off Obafemi Awolowo Way. These streets had been converted into mini markets and restaurants by illegal traders, causing significant human and vehicular traffic obstructions as well as environmental pollution in the area.
CSP Adetayo Akerele, Chairman of the Agency led a two-day raid to address this issue. The raids were conducted at dusk when illegal street traders typically erect makeshift shops and barricades on the roads, causing traffic impediments for vehicles trying to access those routes. Additionally, their activities have resulted in severe violations of environmental laws through indiscriminate disposal of waste into gutters, leading to blockages in canals and drainage systems within the metropolis.
Akerele emphasized that these raids are part of ongoing efforts to address citizen concerns about street trading, which also fosters criminal activities. He stated that some locations used for street trading serve as safe havens for criminals engaged in illicit activities. Furthermore, street traders’ improper waste disposal contributes to flooding issues in certain areas of the state.
“The activities of street traders at Johnson Street especially at night are repugnant at all levels. They sell drugs indiscriminately there which is counter-productive to society and contributes immensely to traffic build-up on Awolowo Road during rush hour at night,” said CSP Adetayo Akerele.
He reiterated the government’s stance on street trading while assuring full commitment toward eradicating this practice. Akerele also highlighted collaborative efforts with other agencies to preserve the environment as outlined in THEMES PLUS agenda of the State Government.
The Chairman appealed to non-compliant street traders and vendors asking them to relocate their stores to designated outlets designed for trading while vacating streets and inner roads. He assured that enforcement actions will target areas where street trader activities obstruct traffic flow or inconvenience residents.
“We will continue our work according to THEMES PLUS agenda of the State Government,” stated CSP Adetayo Akerele; “Those with genuine businesses were allowed to go while others will be charged.”
Anyone with information regarding illegal environmental activities or blockages caused by illegal traders was urged by Akerele to come forward with useful tips through social media handles or directly contact the Headquarters’ office at Bolade Oshodi.
“We will continue our work according to themes plus agenda directed from Commissioner Police,” CSP Adetayo Akerele said.
