The Lagos State Government has intensified enforcement along the Lagos-Badagry Transnational Highway, leading to the arrest of 27 suspected vandals following the discovery of damage beneath the newly constructed bridge linking Festac Town to Alakija.
Eko Hot News reports that the enforcement followed Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s directive to eliminate environmental violations, illegal motor parks, roadside trading, market displays on highway setbacks, and other activities obstructing public spaces along the Lagos-Badagry Transnational Highway.
The Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, disclosed that officials uncovered extensive damage beneath the bridge during a routine enforcement exercise.
According to the Commissioner, investigations showed that suspected vandals had removed iron rods, steel reinforcements, cables and other vital components designed to support the bridge’s structural stability.
The government described the incident as a serious threat to public infrastructure and public safety, noting that such actions could affect the long-term durability of critical transport facilities.
Following the discovery, the Lagos State Government coordinated a joint overnight enforcement operation involving officers of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) and the Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI) Task Force.
The operation resulted in the arrest of 27 suspects at the location. Authorities confirmed that the individuals would be processed in accordance with the laws of Lagos State.
The state government reiterated that protecting public infrastructure remains a top priority under the Sanwo-Olu administration.
Officials stressed that roads, bridges and other public facilities are valuable assets funded for the benefit of all residents and should be safeguarded against damage.
The Lagos-Badagry Transnational Highway is one of the state’s major infrastructure projects designed to improve transportation, ease traffic movement and support economic growth across Lagos.
Government officials said maintaining the corridor requires continuous monitoring and enforcement to preserve public investments.
The enforcement exercise also targeted environmental infractions, unauthorised trading activities and illegal occupation of public spaces that could hinder traffic flow and pedestrian movement.
Authorities said compliance with environmental regulations remains essential to achieving a cleaner, safer and more organised Lagos.
Tokunbo Wahab reaffirmed that the government would continue to strengthen collaboration among relevant security and enforcement agencies to protect public infrastructure.
He noted that regular monitoring and intelligence gathering would remain part of the state’s strategy to prevent future incidents.
Residents were encouraged to support government efforts by reporting suspicious activities around bridges, highways and other public facilities.
Officials emphasised that public cooperation plays an important role in preserving infrastructure and ensuring safer communities.
The Lagos State Government also urged traders, transport operators and residents to comply with environmental and traffic regulations while carrying out their daily activities.
Authorities explained that orderly use of public spaces contributes to improved mobility, environmental sustainability and overall urban development.
The latest enforcement operation reflects the government’s broader commitment to protecting strategic infrastructure, improving environmental standards and promoting public safety across Lagos.
Officials assured residents that similar enforcement exercises would continue in different parts of the state to preserve public assets and ensure compliance with existing regulations.
The government maintained that sustained enforcement, public awareness and community participation remain key to protecting infrastructure investments and supporting the continued development of Lagos State.
