Lagos Govt Clears 138 Shanties Along Ajao Estate Canal

In a move to address environmental concerns, Lagos authorities demolish 138 shanties at Ajao Estate Canal, enforcing urban planning regulations. 

On Thursday, the Lagos Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC), commonly referred to as KAI, demolished 138 shanties along the canal bank in Ajao Estate Canal.

In a video posted on X.com on Friday by Tokunbo Wahab, the state Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, it was revealed that residents of the recently demolished shanties paid an annual rent ranging from N60,000 to N100,000.

He stated, “As part of ongoing efforts to address environmental violations and the illegal occupation of public spaces, the Lagos Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC), commonly known as KAI, demolished 138 shanties along the canal bank at Ajao Estate on Thursday. These illegal occupants were paying between N60,000 to N100,000 in rent.”

Similarly, on Wednesday, 94 individuals were arrested during a midnight operation targeting squatters on rail tracks in the state.

Wahab stated that the arrest was prompted by citizens’ complaints about illegal squatters, troublemakers, and suspected criminal activities along rail track corridors.

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Wahad reported that the authorities recovered a locally-made shotgun, multiple packages of substances believed to be Indian hemp, charms, and a jackknife from the suspects.

He stated, “After receiving complaints from residents, commuters, and concerned citizens about the unlawful activities of illegal squatters, troublemakers, and suspected criminals along rail track corridors, the agency carried out a midnight raid on the rail track stretching from Pen-Cinema underpass to Fagba Junction.”

During the operation, authorities arrested ninety-four suspects and recovered a locally made short gun, multiple packets of substances believed to be Indian hemp, charms, and a jackknife.

The suspects will face charges in court as appropriate.