The Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC), also known as Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI), yesterday demolished makeshift shops along the Ikate axis of the Lekki–Epe Expressway.

During the operation, the agency also confiscated sachet alcohol displayed for sale by the roadside and beef being transported in unsanitary conditions.

LAGESC said the enforcement followed the expiration of a 48-hour quit notice earlier issued to the traders. It added that the clearance formed part of its ongoing efforts to rid Lagos of environmental violations.

Speaking on behalf of the Corps Marshal, Major Olaniyi Olatunbosun Cole (rtd), the Head of Public Affairs and Advocacy Unit, Ajayi Lukman, explained that the demolition targeted illegal structures that had become havens for criminal activities.

He decried the high levels of filth and disregard for public health observed during the exercise.
Cole further warned street traders and hawkers against illegal activities, including selling goods in traffic, on road shoulders, medians, and engaging in open defecation, stressing that offenders would be apprehended and prosecuted under state environmental laws.

“The governor has instructed the clearing of illegal structures across all the councils in the state. Today’s operation covered Ikate, Elegushi and Festac. Despite the 48-hour notice, the traders chose to remain in the area.

This is not the first time we have cleared the place, but they keep returning,” he said.