The Lagos State Task Force has issued a warning to residents who routinely hold events on public roads, causing disruptions for other road users.
The agency announced it will prosecute those who ignore state laws prohibiting road parties. This warning follows the recent arrest of five individuals on Raymond Njoku Road in Ikoyi for blocking the road during a birthday celebration.
The Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, shared details of the arrest on his X page last Monday. According to Wahab, those detained were Omolara Ajetumobi, an event planner; Ogundare Olubunmi, the celebrant; Ayodele Busuyi, a musician; Owoeye Adedayo, a sound engineer; and Akinola Akinkunmi, a vendor.
They were arrested on Saturday, October 19, 2024, for obstructing traffic and causing a public nuisance. Wahab stated, “The suspects were apprehended for blocking Raymond Njoku Road in Ikoyi during a birthday celebration. They will face prosecution under state law. The Lagos State Government asserts that no one is above the law and will not be allowed to disregard state regulations.”
In a statement on Tuesday, Task Force spokesperson Raheem Gbadeyan reiterated the state’s firm stance against hosting events on roads, stressing that violators will face legal consequences. Quoting Task Force Chairman Adetayo Akerele, Gbadeyan noted that this practice has become a growing concern due to its increasing frequency.
Akerele explained, “Hosting social gatherings or religious events on public roads inconveniences other residents and motorists. The Lagos State Task Force is committed to maintaining environmental decorum and ensuring smooth traffic flow across the state, condemning this practice entirely.” He added, “It is unacceptable for anyone to monopolise public spaces, particularly roads intended for the free movement of people and vehicles, for personal interests.”
He also cited incidents on Lawani Street in Yaba, Ganiyu Lamina Street in Ijaye Ojokoro, and other parts of Lagos, urging individuals involved in such activities to desist immediately or face serious legal repercussions.
The chairman stressed that the agency will not tolerate actions that compromise public safety or inconvenience road users. He urged residents to use designated event venues instead.
“In cooperation with other security agencies, the Lagos State Task Force will conduct regular monitoring and enforce swift action to prevent further disruptions of roads and side streets. Residents are encouraged to report any road obstructions through the Task Force’s ‘See Something, Say Something’ initiative to enable prompt intervention,” Gbadeyan concluded.
