Lagos task force warns transport unions against selling public spaces

The Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences Enforcement Unit, popularly known as the Task Force, has cautioned transport unions and other stakeholders against allocating pedestrian walkways and public spaces to their members.

The chairman of the task force, Adetayo Akerele, issued the warning in a statement on Thursday following an engagement with transport unions, market leaders, traders and other stakeholders in the Ikeja Division.

The meeting was held on Wednesday at the Lagos State Safety Arena, Oshodi, as part of efforts by the agency to deepen cooperation with stakeholders on public safety, environmental compliance and adherence to existing laws.

Akerele said the task force would sustain enforcement against the obstruction of pedestrian walkways, road setbacks and other spaces designated for public use.

He expressed concern over reports that some union officials had been allocating pedestrian walkways and other public spaces to petty traders, thereby restricting free movement and contributing to environmental nuisances.

The chairman urged the stakeholders to support government efforts to keep public spaces accessible and prevent illegal encroachment.

He disclosed that the task force was also working with relevant state agencies to tackle other environmental concerns, including poor waste management and open defecation.

“Enforcement alone cannot achieve a clean and safe environment. Sustained public safety and environmental sanitation require collective responsibility,” he said.

Akerele further directed scrap dealers to ensure that every member of their associations was duly registered and possessed verifiable means of identification.

He explained that proper identification of scrap dealers would improve accountability and security while assisting law enforcement agencies in distinguishing legitimate operators from criminal elements.

According to the chairman, the engagement reflects the task force’s commitment to partnering with stakeholders to protect public spaces and infrastructure while promoting a cleaner and safer environment across Lagos.