Lagos Arrests 27 Over Alleged Vandalism Of Festac-Alakija Bridge
By Saheed Afolabi
Lagos State has arrested 27 suspected hoodlums for allegedly vandalising critical components of the newly constructed bridge linking Festac Town to Alakija on the Lagos-Badagry Transnational Highway.
Commissioner for Environment Tokunbo Wahab said the discovery was made during enforcement operations aimed at clearing the highway of environmental pollution, illegal motor parks, roadside trading and other infractions, in line with directives from Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
“In line with the directive of Mr. Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu to rid the Lagos-Badagry Transnational Highway of all forms of infractions, environmental pollution, illegal motor parks, roadside trading, and market displays on highway setbacks and pedestrian walkways, enforcement operations uncovered a disturbing act of vandalism beneath the newly constructed bridge linking Festac Town to Alakija,” Wahab said.
“Investigations revealed that the suspects had deliberately removed iron rods, steel reinforcements, cables and other supporting materials essential to the bridge’s structural integrity.
“This criminal act poses a serious threat to public safety and undermines the government’s investment in critical infrastructure.
“A joint midnight operation involving officers of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) and the Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI) task force was subsequently carried out at the location, leading to the arrests. The suspects will be prosecuted under the extant laws of Lagos State.”
Wahab reaffirmed the state government’s resolve to protect public infrastructure take strict measures against criminals who threatens safety of public infrastructures and residents.
“The Lagos State Government remains committed to protecting public infrastructure and will continue to take decisive action against individuals or groups engaged in acts of vandalism, environmental infractions, and other criminal activities that threaten the safety and wellbeing of residents.”
