The Lagos State Government has announced a renewed crackdown on illegal gates and other unauthorised structures obstructing public roads, directing their removal within seven days as part of measures to ease traffic congestion during the festive period.
The directive also mandates communities operating gated streets across the state to ensure that such gates are opened daily from 5:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., to allow free vehicular movement and reduce gridlock on major and alternative routes.
Speaking on the development, the Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, said the action aligns with established state guidelines and the THEMES+ Agenda of the current administration, which prioritises seamless mobility, safety of lives and property, and the ease of doing business in Lagos.
“While the government recognises the security benefits associated with gated streets, it is important that these measures do not impede the free flow of traffic, especially during periods of heightened movement such as the festive season,” Osiyemi said.
He explained that the surge in travel, commercial activities, tourism and entertainment events during the Yuletide has significantly increased traffic volumes on alternative routes, making it imperative to keep all public roads accessible.
“All gates and structures erected on public roads without prior approval from the Ministry of Transportation must be removed within seven days of this notice. This is to ensure unobstructed vehicular movement and safeguard lives and property,” the commissioner stated.
Osiyemi further assured residents that enforcement teams would be deployed across the state to ensure compliance with the directive, stressing that unrestricted access in and out of gated streets would be strictly enforced to prevent avoidable congestion.
“Our objective is to make movement across Lagos safer and more efficient for residents and visitors alike, particularly during this festive period and beyond,” he added.
The Lagos State Government reaffirmed its commitment to creating a conducive environment for commerce, tourism and travel, assuring the public that all necessary steps would continue to be taken to enhance mobility and overall quality of life in the state.
