‘Boola, Cart Pushers, and Hawkers in Soup’ as Ikeja Cracks Down on Informal Operators
Kehinde Adeleye
The Chairman of Ikeja Local Government, Comrade Akeem Olalekan Dauda (AKOD), today held a high-level press conference at the Executive Chairman’s Conference Room, Ikeja House, to announce the full-scale enforcement of new security and environmental measures across Ikeja, effective January 1st, 2026.
The press briefing, convened to address rising security and social challenges in the Ikeja community, brought together the heads of all major security agencies operating in the area, including the Nigeria Police, Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Corps (LNSC), Civil Defence, DSS, Immigration, KAI, and the National Orientation Agency. Community stakeholders in attendance included the CDC Chairman, Iyaloja of Ikeja, religious leaders, youth representatives, market associations, and other key residents.
Chairman AKOD, flanked by the Ikeja Local Government management team led by Council Manager Mrs. Juliana Taiwo Odubeko and six legislative councillors headed by Hon. Rasheed Adisa Ogunseye, emphasized that the new measures are designed to restore public order, strengthen security, and make Ikeja a safer, cleaner, and more organized city.
He specifically highlighted informal actors who have contributed to insecurity and disorder, stating that scavengers, street traders, and cart pushers are “in the soup” and will be directly targeted under the new policy.
Key Areas of Enforcement
1. Ban on Scavengers (Boola)
AKOD stressed that scavengers’ activities have been linked to theft, vandalism of public property, and other security breaches. Moving forward, only licensed and traceable waste operators will be permitted to operate.
2. Ban on Street Trading and Hawking
Street trading, he said, contributes to traffic congestion, environmental hazards, and exposes traders to avoidable dangers. The council will create safer, regulated trading zones within designated markets.
3. Ban on Cart Pushers
Cart pushers, who often facilitate illegal dumping and nighttime security risks, will be phased out entirely. A structured waste disposal system will replace the informal operations to ensure order and hygiene.
4. Zero Tolerance for Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV)
AKOD affirmed a community-driven approach to tackle SGBV, working with security agencies to ensure rapid response, legal support, and protection for women, children, and vulnerable residents.
The Chairman reiterated that enforcement begins January 1st, 2026, with joint operations coordinated by all security agencies and government units. He called for the full cooperation of residents, market leaders, religious institutions, transport unions, and other community stakeholders.
“This is not about punishing people; it is about promoting a safer, cleaner, and more organized Ikeja,” AKOD said. “Scavengers, street traders, and cart pushers who operate outside the law are now in the soup. We owe our people a better Ikeja, and we will not compromise on security or public safety.”
He concluded by thanking all stakeholders and reaffirming the council’s commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which prioritizes the safety, welfare, and development of all citizens.
