LANDSCAPING and beautification make an environment come to life, enhancing relaxation spots and tourism. The tenure of former Lagos State governor, Babatunde Raji Fashola, witnessed significant environmental transformation evident in the beautification of sidewalks, creation of parks and gardens, adornment of spaces beneath bridges, and at roundabouts.

A drive around Lagos today would testify to how these lush green gardens have boosted the aesthetics of the state, perhaps even affirming its right to the name: ‘Centre of Excellence. Many of these places were created from former wastelands or hideouts for hoodlums; spots that previously had been shunned by residents.

In Lagos, there are a total of 232 recreational parks and gardens. Some are run through the Public Private Partnership (PPP) initiative of the state government. But while some of these parks are still very well maintained, others, following the exit of Fashola, are beginning to show signs of abandonment.

Such is the importance of some of these parks; they are even used to host events. The Gani Fawehinmi Memorial Garden in the Ojota area is a case in point. Strategically located, its scenery welcomes visitors to the state. The late human rights activist couldn’t have been happier at the fact that the venue has hosted a huge anti-government rally against planned removal of petroleum subsidy.

Today, the garden bears marks of neglect. There are broken fences; the premise is littered with dirt, while hawkers convert its lawns into a makeshift store for their wares. The place is fast becoming an eyesore. Offensive stench of human waste from the gutters hit the nostrils. Trucks have turned its side into a parking space while drivers nap on the lawns.

According to one trader in the area, “Since the exit of Fashola, things have not been the same. The place has not completely gone to ruins but the care and time put into maintaining it has reduced greatly. And with time, it could suffer total neglect. This downturn creeps in gradually; it doesn’t come all in a day. You wonder if it is Fashola’s personal project and not something meant to benefit the entire state.”

The state of the garden leaves one wondering what the Lagos State Parks and Gardens Agency (LASPARK) is doing, considering that dumping of refuse or defecating at the park is punishable with fine or imprisonment. Could the law be active only on paper? Does it cease to be applicable when a new government assumes power?

The Heritage Recreational Park in Oshodi is another prominent place. It is run via Public Private Partnership (PPP). The park still has its lush garden, children’s play kits, and benches for relaxation. But there is fear it could be overtaken by the decay and chaos that once characterized old Oshodi.

Urchins, popularly known as ‘Area Boys’, have turned it to a hang out. They sit on the garden’s vandalized signpost, smoking marijuana and oftentimes harassing fun seekers. Ironically, the park is situated opposite the headquarters of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), with a police post also nearby.

One visitor to the park said: “When it was initially opened, it was a very beautiful sight patronised by adults and children. While children play with their toys, the adults sit and soak in the peace and quiet. Lovers also stroll through the park. But now, these touts have invaded the place, while the police look on helplessly. Visitors now wonder if it is safe to bring their children to the park.”

There are, however, some well maintained parks that still uphold the vision behind the state’s beautification scheme. One of these is Shodex Beautification and Landscaping Limited at Anthony Village. This recreational park and garden has facilities that include a mini zoo, benches for relaxation, event hall, children’s toys, etc. It is properly maintained and has good security. Unlike the scary Oshodi affair, people can relax here without anything on their minds but fun. Even schools on excursion bring their pupils to the place.

According to one Mrs. Tobore, who is resident in the area, “Nigerians are good in building things, but lack a maintenance culture. If only we can maintain half of our infrastructure, we would be on the way to becoming a major tourist hub.”