The Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences (Enforcement) Unit, popularly known as the Taskforce, has stopped an unauthorised street party on Lawani Street, off University Road in Yaba, after organisers illegally converted part of the public road into a private event venue.
The incident occurred on a key alternative route currently serving motorists because of ongoing road construction on a nearby road. According to the Taskforce, one lane of the road had been cordoned off for a private anniversary celebration, causing traffic disruption and inconvenience to commuters.
Acting on credible intelligence, the Chairman of the Lagos State Taskforce, CSP Adetayo Akerele, immediately deployed enforcement officers to the location. The operatives dismantled the illegal barricades and confiscated canopies, chairs, tables and other items used to obstruct the roadway, restoring normal traffic flow.
Speaking after the operation, Akerele condemned the growing practice of using public roads as venues for private social events. He stressed that no individual has the right to occupy public infrastructure for personal celebrations at the expense of other road users.
The Taskforce chairman warned organisers of such events and anyone obstructing roads for social gatherings to desist from the practice. He advised residents to use designated event centres or obtain the necessary approvals where applicable instead of blocking public roads.
“Public roads are constructed for the benefit of all Lagosians and must not be converted into private event spaces. Anyone found obstructing traffic or blocking public roads for social activities will face the full weight of the law. We will not tolerate actions that disrupt public order or frustrate the daily livelihood of residents,” Akerele said.
He also urged residents to support the agency by reporting activities that threaten public safety, obstruct road networks or degrade the environment through the Taskforce’s emergency lines or official social media platforms. Akerele reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to enforcing environmental and traffic regulations to maintain order, safety and free movement across Lagos State.
