The Lagos State Government has issued an immediate quit notice to squatters operating under the Obalende Bridge and motor park, as plans commence to redesign the area into a modern, environmentally sustainable space.
Eko Hot News reports that the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr Tokunbo Wahab, gave the directive during an inspection of the site, stressing that the affected occupants had been notified since 2024.
Wahab said the state government has approved the redevelopment, adding that enforcement officials are already on the ground to ensure compliance and facilitate the handover of the space to a private company undertaking the project as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).
He explained that the delay in execution was due to extensive consultations to ensure the design aligns with environmental sustainability standards and long-term maintenance plans by the partnering company.
According to the Commissioner, the redesigned space will feature a motor garage, public toilets, sleeping bays, and electric vehicle charging points, while also addressing security concerns by eliminating criminal activities in the area.
Wahab noted that the initiative is part of a broader strategy to make Lagos under-bridge spaces functional and suitable for a 21st-century economy, promising to unveil the project design to the public after the official handover.
The inspection team also visited Oja Oba on Lagos Island, where the Lagos Island Local Government has proposed to finance and manage the beautification of another under-bridge location.
He cited the successful transformation of the Osborne under-bridge into a football pitch as evidence that open spaces can be repurposed productively.
Wahab further disclosed that the Adeniji/Ilubirin loop will soon undergo a similar redevelopment to curb illegal activities and enhance community use.
He reaffirmed that laws against street trading and illegal waste disposal remain in force, urging residents and traders to comply.
The Commissioner was accompanied by top officials from the Ministry, LAWMA, and related agencies.
