Lagos Cracks Down on Ojo-Alaba Street Trading, Arrests 3 for Obstruction
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The Lagos State Government took action on Saturday to remove illegal street vendors from the median of Ojo-Alaba Road. This operation was carried out by the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC) and the Lagos Waste Management Agency (LAWMA), resulting in the arrest of three individuals who obstructed the enforcement efforts.
Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, shared this information on his official X account on Saturday, June 7, 2025. He explained that this clearance operation is part of the state’s ongoing initiative to restore environmental order and enhance public safety on Lagos roads. The individuals arrested will face charges under relevant Lagos State laws.
Wahab’s post stated, “A joint operation by the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (@LAGESCOfficial) and the Lagos Waste Management Agency (@Lawma_gov) was conducted along Ojo-Alaba Road to remove illegal traders from the median. During this operation, three individuals were arrested for obstructing the government’s efforts, and they will be prosecuted according to Lagos State laws.”
The commissioner also shared a video showing officials dismantling makeshift kiosks that had taken over the road median.
The footage depicted a section of the median being used as commercial stalls, with many kiosks being torn down and litter scattered from trading activities. The video also captured operatives apprehending one trader who tried to interfere with the clearance before escorting him into a government vehicle.
The government has consistently warned that street trading on road medians poses environmental and safety risks, disrupts traffic flow, and endangers both pedestrians and drivers.
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**Key Points to Note:**
The Lagos State Government has been actively addressing the ongoing issue of illegal street trading in restricted areas, including road setbacks, drainage channels, under bridges, and along rail lines.
Despite multiple clearance efforts, traders often return to these locations, creating persistent environmental hazards and compromising public safety. These encroachments obstruct traffic, block drainage systems, and pose risks to both pedestrians and motorists.
– In recent months, the government has stepped up enforcement in various parts of Lagos to combat these illegal activities. In December 2024, traders near rail tracks in Bolade, Oshodi, were removed due to public safety concerns highlighted by viral videos.
– Earlier, in October 2024, illegal traders and makeshift structures blocking drainage channels in FESTAC Town were cleared to restore proper water flow.
– Most recently, in March 2025, structures encroaching on setbacks and drainage areas along the Alaba International drainage channel were dismantled to reduce flooding risks and ensure the smooth passage of stormwater.
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