The Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences Unit (Taskforce) has begun enforcement at the Alaba-Rago axis of the Mile 2-Badagry Expressway after the expiration of a 72-hour notice issued to traders and other occupants operating in restricted areas.
The exercise targets illegal street trading, makeshift structures and other obstructions along the highway, walkways, road medians and setbacks.
For many residents of Amuwo-Odofin, Festac Town, Satellite Town and neighbouring communities, Alaba-Rago is one of the busiest entry and exit points along the Lagos-Badagry Expressway. The corridor is known for heavy roadside trading and traffic congestion, especially during rush hours.
The Chairman of the Lagos State Taskforce, CSP Adetayo Akerele, had earlier appealed to traders to remove their goods and vacate prohibited areas before the enforcement began.
According to the agency, the operation follows repeated complaints about traffic obstruction, environmental concerns and safety issues linked to activities around the corridor.
Officials say the exercise is intended to improve traffic movement, restore order and ensure public spaces are used for their intended purpose. The Taskforce also warned that goods and structures found violating existing environmental laws would be removed.
The enforcement is being carried out in collaboration with other relevant agencies under the supervision of the Lagos State Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources.
While some residents have welcomed efforts to reduce congestion around Alaba-Rago, others say they hope the operation will be sustained and carried out in a way that does not unnecessarily disrupt legitimate businesses.
Festac Online will continue to monitor developments and provide updates on how the exercise affects commuters, traders and residents across Amuwo-Odofin and the Lagos-Badagry corridor.