The Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences Enforcement Unit, popularly known as the Task Force, has warned transport union officials against illegally allocating pedestrian walkways and other public spaces to petty traders.
The agency said the practice poses a serious threat to public safety, obstructs pedestrian movement and undermines efforts to maintain order across the state.
Chairman of the Task Force, CSP Adetayo Akerele, gave the warning during a stakeholders’ engagement for the Ikeja Division held at the Lagos State Safety Arena in Oshodi.
The engagement, themed “Promoting Public Safety and Environmental Best Practices in Lagos State,” was organized as part of the agency’s ongoing efforts to strengthen cooperation with transport unions, market leaders, trade associations and other stakeholders.
More Read
Akerele explained that the initiative was aimed at promoting compliance with environmental regulations, improving public safety and ensuring adherence to Lagos State laws.
He noted that similar stakeholder engagements had previously been held in the Ikorodu, Epe, Badagry and Lagos Central divisions.
The Task Force chairman urged transport union officials to desist from using their positions to allocate pedestrian walkways and public spaces to traders, stressing that such practices could contribute to congestion and create safety risks for residents and other road users.
More Read
Akerele also commended the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for its investments in environmental sustainability, urban renewal, public infrastructure and enforcement initiatives.
He reaffirmed the Task Force’s commitment to supporting the state government’s THEMES Plus Agenda, particularly in areas relating to a cleaner, safer and better-organized Lagos.
Task Force Moves to Regulate Scrap Metal Industry
The chairman also addressed concerns surrounding the scrap metal industry in Lagos, directing the state chairman of the Scrap Dealers and Employers Operators, Comrade Adewale Adedotun, to ensure that all members of the association are properly registered.
He further instructed that operators should possess verifiable identification documents.
According to Akerele, proper registration and identification would promote accountability within the industry, strengthen security and assist law enforcement agencies in distinguishing legitimate scrap metal operators from individuals who may be using the trade as a cover for criminal activities.
More Read
The Task Force said continued engagement with relevant stakeholders remains essential to achieving greater compliance with environmental and public safety regulations across Lagos State.
