Lagos Government Clears Illegal Street Traders from Ojo-Alaba Median, Arrests Three for Obstruction

In a fresh move to restore environmental order and improve public safety, the Lagos State Government on Saturday, June 7, 2025, dislodged illegal street traders operating along the median of the Ojo-Alaba Road. The clearance operation, carried out jointly by the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC) and the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), led to the arrest of three individuals for obstructing government officials during the enforcement exercise.

The development was announced by the Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, via a post on his official X (formerly Twitter) account.

“A joint operation of the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps @LAGESCOfficial and the Lagos Waste Management Agency @Lawma_gov carried out a clearance operation along Ojo–Alaba Rd, dislodging illegal traders selling on the median. During the exercise, three individuals were arrested for obstructing the government operation, and they will be tried in accordance with the relevant laws of Lagos State,” Wahab wrote.

Enforcement in Action

Wahab’s post included a video clip showing law enforcement personnel dismantling makeshift kiosks and stalls illegally set up on the median. The footage revealed scenes of scattered refuse, rudimentary wooden stalls being torn down, and enforcement officers escorting one of the arrested individuals into a government vehicle after he reportedly tried to interfere with the operation.

The action was part of Lagos State’s wider campaign to eliminate environmental nuisances and prevent the misuse of public infrastructure across the metropolis.

Safety and Sanitation Concerns

The state government has consistently emphasized the dangers of street trading in prohibited areas such as road medians, drainage setbacks, railway tracks, and under bridges. These activities often cause severe obstructions to traffic flow, block drainage systems, and pose serious risks to the safety of pedestrians and motorists.

Authorities argue that beyond the visual blight, the environmental degradation caused by indiscriminate trading also increases flooding risks, especially when traders dump refuse into gutters and drainage channels.

“Street trading on road medians not only obstructs traffic but also creates serious environmental and safety concerns. The government will continue to enforce the law and restore sanity on our roads,” Wahab reiterated in an earlier statement.

Ongoing Crackdown on Illegal Trading

The Ojo-Alaba clearance is the latest in a series of coordinated crackdowns on illegal street trading across Lagos. In recent months, the state government has intensified enforcement activities in several high-risk areas.

• In December 2024, traders operating dangerously close to rail tracks at Bolade, Oshodi, were evicted after viral videos sparked outrage over safety risks.

• In October 2024, illegal stalls and shanties blocking drainage systems in FESTAC Town were removed to prevent waterlogging and flooding.

• In March 2025, authorities cleared structures encroaching on drainage alignments near the Alaba International Market to ensure effective stormwater passage and reduce flood risk during the rainy season.

Despite these efforts, illegal street trading has remained a persistent issue. Many traders often return to previously cleared areas shortly after enforcement teams leave, prompting calls for more sustainable solutions, including designated markets and public education.

What Lies Ahead

The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing environmental laws and protecting public infrastructure from abuse. As part of this effort, individuals arrested during clearance operations, like those detained on Saturday, will be prosecuted under existing environmental and public safety laws.

The state’s Ministry of Environment has also urged residents to support the campaign by avoiding street-side purchases and reporting unlawful activities that compromise public safety.