Lagos taskforce forces street traders out of business

The Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences Unit (Taskforce) conducted an enforcement operation on Lagos Island last weekend to curb street trading and illegal shop extensions.

Taskforce Chairman, Adetayo Akerele, in a statement, said the operation was part of a clean-up exercise to remove street trading, unauthorised displays, road blockages, and other environmental offences.

The enforcement covered Marina, Davies Street, Breadfruit Street, and surrounding areas, targeting traders causing obstructions and environmental nuisance along key roadways.

“Traders were found displaying goods on highways, roadways, and walkways, obstructing free movement along the Lagos Marina Expressway,” Akerele said.

He expressed concern over persistent disregard for environmental and traffic regulations by some traders, urging compliance for public safety.

“Traders had blocked the entrance of St. Paul Primary School, making access difficult for pupils and staff,” he added.

During the operation, all illegally displayed goods on Davies and Breadfruit Streets were confiscated, restoring order and normalcy in the affected areas.

“Davies Street, once a vibrant social hub, had deteriorated due to street traders and illegal stalls obstructing roads and walkways,” Akerele explained.

The agency also cleared Iyana-Ipaja Underbridge of unauthorised stalls, easing movement for motorists, commuters, and pedestrians.

All confiscated goods will be forfeited to the Lagos State Government under the Lagos State Environmental Management and Protection Law of 2017.

Akerele warned traders against obstructing highways and road corridors, stressing that violations increase travel time and attract strict enforcement.

He urged street traders and illegal occupants to desist from such acts or face the full weight of the law.

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