The Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences Unit (Taskforce) has commenced the removal of street traders, makeshift structures and other illegal encroachments on the median of Mile 2 – Badagry Expressway, following the expiration of a 72-hour quit notice issued to occupants to vacate the area.
The enforcement operation, which began on Monday, is part of the Lagos State Government’s efforts to restore order, improve traffic flow and address environmental and safety concerns along the strategic Lagos–Badagry corridor.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu had, during last Saturday’s monthly environmental sanitation exercise, reiterated his administration’s directive that traders operating along the corridor should vacate the area or face enforcement action.
According to the governor, the state government would not allow activities along the corridor to continue degrading what he described as one of the major gateways into Lagos.
Prior to the Governor’s warning, the Chairman of the Lagos State Taskforce had issued a 72-hour quit notice to traders and occupants operating within the corridor, warning that failure to comply would result in the removal of structures and the confiscation of goods found at the site.
Confirming the commencement of the exercise, the Director of Public Affairs, Lagos State Taskforce, Gbadeyan Abdulraheem, said the operation targets illegal street trading, makeshift structures, obstructions on highways, walkways, medians and setbacks, as well as other activities that violate the state’s environmental laws.
“The exercise is being carried out in collaboration with relevant enforcement agencies to restore order, improve public safety, enhance traffic flow and address persistent environmental concerns along the strategic Lagos–Badagry corridor,” Abdulraheem said.
He noted that the enforcement operation is being conducted under the supervision of the Lagos State Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources as part of ongoing efforts to maintain a cleaner, safer and more orderly environment.
“The Lagos State Government remains committed to enforcing environmental laws and protecting public infrastructure while ensuring that the state maintains the standards expected of a modern megacity,” he stated.
Abdulraheem added that the Taskforce would continue to enforce environmental regulations across the state, warning that structures and items obstructing public spaces or violating extant laws would be removed in accordance with existing regulations.
Troops Rescue 10 NECO Candidates, Teachers Abducted in Borno
Ten abducted National Examinations Council (NECO) candidates and teachers have been rescued by troops following an attack by suspected ISWAP insurgents on Lassa Community in Askira Uba Local Government Area of Borno State.
The victims were abducted on Monday when the attackers reportedly stormed the Technical Secondary School in Lassa while students were writing their NECO examinations.
According to the Acting Military Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force North East, Capt. Mohammed Goni, troops immediately launched a coordinated search-and-rescue operation after receiving reports of the incident.
He said the Theatre Command deployed both strike aircraft and Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) platforms from the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI to support troops mobilised to the area.
The military spokesperson explained that guided by aerial surveillance, the troops made contact with the fleeing insurgents around the Daggu area, leading to an exchange of fire.
“The operation has so far resulted in the successful rescue of 10 victims, who were unhurt and are currently receiving the necessary care and support, while efforts remain ongoing to rescue the remaining victim and bring the perpetrators to justice,” Goni said in a statement issued on Monday.
He added that troops outmanoeuvred the fleeing insurgents during the encounter, inflicting casualties on them and recovering seven motorcycles believed to have been used during the attack, significantly disrupting their escape.
Goni, however, disclosed that one soldier attached to Operation HADIN KAI and a member of the Civilian Joint Task Force were killed during the firefight.
“Their courage, selflessness and unwavering commitment exemplify the collective resolve of security forces and local volunteers who continue to risk their lives daily to protect innocent citizens and restore peace across the North East,” he said.
According to the military, troops, in collaboration with other security agencies and relevant stakeholders, have intensified operations across the area while reinforcing security around vulnerable communities and schools to prevent similar attacks.
Goni said the latest incident reflected what the military described as the increasing resort by terrorist groups to attacks on soft targets amid sustained military pressure.
“Operation HADIN KAI remains steadfast in its mandate to protect civilians, safeguard critical national infrastructure, and create a secure environment for educational activities and other essential services to thrive,” he stated.
He urged members of the public to remain vigilant and continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies, while advising residents to rely on official channels for verified updates as ongoing operations continue to unfold.
The military said efforts were continuing to rescue the remaining abducted victim and apprehend those responsible for the attack.
