Lagos State government has intensified its enforcement against illegal structures and shanties across the metropolis with the latest operation at Costain Bus Stop and Ijora under bridge, leading to the removal of unauthorised traders, makeshift structures and several environmental infractions.

Speaking during exercise at Costain Bus Stop on Friday, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Mr. Sola Giwa, said the move was part of efforts to reclaim public spaces taken over by squatters and criminal elements.

“After clearing Costain under bridge last week, we came here to relocate the buses that have been at the roundabout to their proper terminal. On arrival, we discovered that the bus stop and all the lay-bys built for commercial buses had been overtaken by shanties,” Giwa said.

The inter-agency operation, coordinated by Giwa, involved personnel from the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC), popularly known as KAI, Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) and the Nigeria Police Force.

“We even found a locally made gun here,” Giwa disclosed. “That shows that crimes are being perpetrated in this place. The government cannot sit back and allow this to continue.” He emphasised that the enforcement exercise forms part of the governor’s comprehensive strategy to restore order, safety and sanity across the state.

“What we are trying to emphasise is that there must be law and order in our society. We want to actually have a society that works; everybody must obey the law of the land,” he stated.

Addressing concerns about the continuity of such operations, Giwa confirmed they would be sustained indefinitely. “This is definitely a continuous operation. Lagos continues to attract people because of the good work Mr. Governor is doing. But this influx of people also puts pressure on the infrastructure the government is providing.” He added that the reclaimed areas would be put to better use for the benefit of residents.

The special adviser also disclosed plans to partner with the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) to safeguard railway corridors from encroachment.

“I have spoken with the Managing Director of the NRC. Just behind here is the railway line, and we cannot allow people to build shanties along the tracks,” he said.  Giwa noted that beyond enforcement, the government’s approach is guided by humanitarian considerations.

“How can you leave the comfort of your home to live under a bridge? We are human beings, and there must be respect for human dignity,” he said, describing the action as “tough love.”

He, however, cautioned prospective migrants against relocating to Lagos without adequate preparation.

“Lagos welcomes everyone, but you cannot just come without a plan or a place to stay,” he warned.