The Lagos State government has ordered the immediate eviction of squatters and illegal traders occupying the area beneath the newly constructed Opebi–Mende Bridge, ahead of its official commissioning.
The directive came during an unscheduled inspection of the bridge by the Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Tokunbo Wahab, along with the Special Adviser on Infrastructure, Engr. Olufemi Daramola, and Permanent Secretary, Engr. Olatokunbo Oyenuga.
Wahab described the situation as “disheartening,” noting that some squatters were reportedly from Cane Village and had converted parts of the bridge’s underside into illegal homes and shops.
Today, during an unscheduled inspection of the new Opebi–Mende Bridge with the Special Adviser on Infrastructure, Engr. Olufemi Daramola @Engr_FDarams , and the Permanent Secretary, Engr. Olatokunbo Oyenuga, I gave a marching order for the immediate dislodgement of squatters who… pic.twitter.com/WWdOrvFxQn
— Tokunbo Wahab (@tokunbo_wahab) October 9, 2025
Mechanics had also reportedly turned nearby open spaces into workshops.
He noted that the current administration under Governor Babajide Sanwoolu would not tolerate lawlessness.
“It is disheartening to see such a landmark project, almost ready for commissioning, taken over by miscreants and illegal traders, even some from the Cane Village creating illegal settlements,” Wahab stated.
“Let me be clear: this administration will not tolerate lawlessness. Security agencies will move in immediately, and we will sustain monitoring to ensure squatters do not return.”
Wahab warned that security agencies would be deployed immediately to enforce the eviction order and that continuous monitoring would be conducted to prevent squatters from returning.
Mechanics who fail to vacate the adjoining areas risk having their vehicles impounded, Wahab added.
“The Opebi–Mende Bridge is a huge investment by the Babajide Sanwoolu led administration, and we will protect it for the benefit of law-abiding citizens.”
