Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Monday reassured residents that his administration is committed to safeguarding lives and property, while addressing public safety and urban management challenges across the state.
Speaking at the signing of the 2026 Appropriation Bill at Lagos House, Ikeja, Governor Sanwo-Olu condemned residents’ recent scooping of fuel at Apapa Bridge, describing it as a “suicide mission.” He commended first responders and the police for swiftly securing the area, and warned residents to avoid actions that could lead to disaster.
On public discipline, the governor emphasized stricter enforcement of environmental regulations, particularly indiscriminate dumping of refuse. He noted that the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) and Private Sector Participation agencies would receive budgetary support to expand fleets and equipment for maintaining a clean and safe city. “We have given instructions to LAWMA not only to apprehend but also to see how we can charge people for environmental violations,” he said.
Regarding the Makoko demolition exercise, Governor Sanwo-Olu stressed that affected residents were served evacuation notices over two years ago. He explained that the removal of shanties near high-tension cables—150 to 250 metres away—is intended to protect public safety and not for any ulterior motive.
“A lot of the people have built shanties under the high-tension wire… We cannot fold our arms and let calamity or disaster happen,” he said, clarifying that the demolition targets only specific areas and will not affect the entirety of Makoko.
Governor Sanwo-Olu also criticized some local and international NGOs for allegedly exploiting the situation for profit, stating that investigations were ongoing. “They have made so much money from international organizations… just to cover their own lies because they have not done what they said they were going to be doing,” he added.
As a gesture of compassion, the governor assured that affected residents would receive palliatives and relocation stipends. “I have instructed both local governments and the various ministries concerned to see how they also can give additional succour… to ensure that we all can live in a safe and secure environment,” he said.
