The Lagos State Taskforce has declared the obstruction of public roads for social and religious gatherings as unlawful, warning offenders they will be subject to legal action.
According to The PUNCH, this firm stance was conveyed in a statement issued on Tuesday by the agency’s Director of Press & Public Affairs, Gbadeyan Abdulraheem, who condemned this practice as a significant inconvenience to residents and motorists.
The agency in a statement, expressed disapproval over the growing habit of using public spaces for private events.
The statement said, “The Lagos State Taskforce has issued a strong warning to residents who habitually block streets and occupy parts of the road to host parties, social gatherings, and religious events, causing inconvenience to other residents and motorists. Committed to maintaining environmental decorum and ensuring smooth traffic flow across the state, the Lagos State Taskforce has condemned this practice entirely.”
The statement further highlighted a deep concern raised by the agency’s Chairman, CSP Adetayo Akerele, who criticized the increase in public road obstructions due to unauthorized gatherings.
He pointed out that these actions disrupt the daily lives of law-abiding citizens and pose serious risks to both safety and security.
Akerele noted, “It is unacceptable for any individual or group to hijack public spaces, especially roads meant for the free movement of people and vehicles, for their own selfish interests.”
The Taskforce illustrated its commitment to this policy with a recent example, where a social event on Raymond Njoku Street in Ikoyi was shut down following reports of severe traffic obstruction and noise disturbances.
“The event was terminated, and key organisers were arrested,” he added.
Akerele also referenced similar incidents in other parts of the city, such as Lawani Street in Yaba and Ganiyu Lamina Street at Ijaye Ojokoro.
He cautioned, “We are appealing to those involved in this practice to desist forthwith or face serious legal consequences.”
Emphasizing that such practices compromise both environmental and public safety, Akerele affirmed that the Taskforce will take action against violators.
“Blocking roads for parties or religious events is illegal, and those involved will face the full weight of the law,” he warned.
The Chairman encouraged Lagos residents to use proper event venues or secure official permits from the relevant authorities for gatherings that may interfere with traffic flow.
He reiterated the Lagos State Government’s pledge to foster a safe and orderly environment, explaining that the Taskforce, in coordination with other security agencies, will actively monitor and respond swiftly to any disruption on public roads and inner streets.
Residents are also urged to contribute by reporting road obstructions via the Taskforce’s “See Something, Say Something” initiative, ensuring rapid intervention when necessary.
