The Lagos Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC), also known as KAI, carried out a significant demolition operation on Thursday, dismantling 138 shanties situated along the Ajao Estate Canal in a bid to curb illegal encampments and environmental violations in the area.
The occupants of these structures had reportedly paid annual rents ranging between N60,000 and N100,000 for the illegal dwellings. The demolition was part of the ongoing efforts by the Lagos State government to address environmental infractions and illegal settlements in public spaces.
In a video posted on X.com by the state Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, he emphasized the government’s commitment to reducing environmental hazards associated with unauthorized constructions.
Wahab stated, “In continuation of concerted measures to reduce the scourge of environmental infractions and illegal encampment in public spaces, the Lagos Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC), popularly known as KAI, on Thursday demolished 138 shanties around the canal bank in Ajao Estate Canal where illegal occupants pay between N60,000 to N100,000 rent.”
The demolition operation comes after heightened concerns over the proliferation of shanties in various parts of Lagos, with critics citing the unsanitary conditions and the potential safety risks posed by these settlements, particularly in areas near water bodies.
By targeting the Ajao Estate Canal, authorities are aiming to restore order and mitigate environmental risks in the area.
This operation aligns with the state government’s broader strategy to maintain environmental cleanliness, enforce building regulations, and deter the proliferation of illegal structures in public spaces.
In addition to the canal operation, another significant action took place earlier this week, where LAGESC arrested 94 individuals during a midnight raid targeting squatters along rail track corridors.
According to Wahab, the raid was prompted by numerous complaints from residents and commuters about the illegal activities and the safety threats posed by squatters in the area.
The operation focused on rail track sections stretching from Pen-Cinema under the bridge to Fagba Junction.
During the raid, authorities recovered several items, including a locally fabricated shotgun, wraps of substances believed to be Indian hemp, charms, and a jackknife, raising concerns about criminal activity in the vicinity.
“The suspects will be charged in court accordingly,” Wahab assured, further underscoring the government’s commitment to addressing security concerns and environmental infractions in the state.
This series of actions highlights the Lagos government’s intensified efforts to address both environmental challenges and security issues, ensuring that public spaces are safe and properly regulated.
The city’s authorities continue to conduct operations targeting illegal squatters, which remain a significant concern for residents and businesses alike.
As these operations unfold, Lagosians can expect further enforcement measures aimed at curbing illegal settlements, ensuring better urban planning, and promoting environmental sustainability in one of Nigeria’s most populous cities.
