The Lagos State Task Force has issued a stern warning to residents who obstruct public roads by hosting events, cautioning that violators will face prosecution.
This follows the recent arrest of five individuals on Raymond Njoku Road, Ikoyi, for blocking traffic to host a birthday party.
In a post shared on his social media account, the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, confirmed the arrests, identifying those involved as Omolara Ajetumobi (event planner), Ogundare Olubunmi (celebrant), Ayodele Busuyi (musician), Owoeye Adedayo (sound engineer), and Akinola Akinkunmi (vendor).
The arrests took place on October 19, 2024, with the suspects now facing charges for obstructing traffic and creating a public nuisance.
Wahab emphasized, “The suspects were apprehended for blocking a public road in Southwest Ikoyi. They will be prosecuted in accordance with state laws, which prohibit the misuse of public spaces for private events. Lagos State remains committed to enforcing its regulations to protect public order and safety.”
Echoing this stance, Task Force spokesperson Raheem Gbadeyan noted on Tuesday that the agency would strictly enforce these rules, which also apply to social and religious gatherings. Citing growing concerns over the trend, he stressed that such activities inconvenience residents and disrupt traffic.
Task Force Chairman Adetayo Akerele reiterated the agency’s zero-tolerance policy on blocking public roads. “It is unacceptable for individuals or groups to seize public spaces for private interests, especially spaces meant for free movement. Streets such as Lawani Street in Yaba and Ganiyu Lamina Street in Ijaye Ojokoro have also reported similar obstructions. Those involved must stop immediately or face serious legal repercussions,” he warned.
Akerele encouraged Lagos residents to use designated event centers instead and reported that the Task Force, in collaboration with other security agencies, would increase monitoring to prevent future disruptions. Through its “See Something, Say Something” initiative, the agency urges residents to report road blockages promptly for swift intervention.
