In a major crackdown on infrastructure vandalism, the Lagos State Government has arrested 27 suspected hoodlums for allegedly removing critical structural components under the bridge linking Festac Town to Alakija along the Lagos-Badagry Transnational Highway.
The bridge was said to have been constructed five years ago.
According to a statement by the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, the arrests, which were carried out in a joint midnight enforcement operation by the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) and the Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI) task force, followed a directive from Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to rid the Lagos-Badagry Transnational Highway of all forms of infractions, environmental pollution, and illegal trading.
Wahab said investigations revealed that the suspects deliberately vandalised critical structural components of the bridge, such as iron rods, steel reinforcements, and cables, posing a serious threat to public safety and undermining the government’s investment in critical infrastructure.
“Investigations revealed that suspected hoodlums had deliberately vandalised critical structural components of the bridge by removing iron rods, steel reinforcements, cables, and other supporting materials essential to the integrity of the infrastructure,” Wahab stated.
“This criminal act poses a serious threat to public safety and undermines the government’s investment in critical infrastructure.
“Following this discovery, a joint midnight enforcement operation involving officers of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) and the Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI) task force was conducted at the location.
“The operation led to the arrest of 27 suspected hoodlums, who will be prosecuted in accordance with the extant laws of Lagos State.”
READ ALSO:
- Lagos Flooding: Stop Dumping Refuse in Drainage Channels, Umahi Tells Lagos Residents
- Uncollected Waste Chokes Lagos Drains, Worsens Flooding
- Lagos Seals 12 Businesses in Crackdown on Environmental Violations
- When the Rain Falls, Fear Spreads: Inside Lagos Flood Crisis
A video shared on his verified X handle on Friday showed vandalised sections of the vertical pillars holding the bridge, as the criminals dug under, breaking concrete and removing iron rods, highlighting a potential threat to the reinforcement of the structure that bears loads of heavy-duty vehicles that ply the road on a daily basis.
The commissioner said the operation is part of a broader enforcement campaign targeting illegal structures, roadside trading, and environmental infractions along the major transport corridor.
He vowed that similar enforcement exercises will continue until full compliance with existing laws is achieved.
He added that the Lagos State Government remains committed to protecting public infrastructure and taking decisive action against individuals or groups engaged in acts of vandalism and other criminal activities that threaten the safety and wellbeing of residents.
Victor Ezeja is a Nigerian journalist skilled in producing insightful news analyses, feature stories, and interviews that simplify complex issues and drive informed public discourse. His work combines rigorous research, balanced reporting, and compelling storytelling to highlight developments shaping industries and society. Victor, who holds a Master's Degree in Mass Communication, specializes in energy, aviation, business, and economic reporting. He can be reached via @VICTOREZEJA on X