Govt dismantles Lekki shanties, recovers weapons
The Lagos State Ministry of Waterfront Infrastructure Development has intensified enforcement efforts at the Okunde Bluewater Scheme in the Lekki area, dislodging squatters and dismantling makeshift structures identified as hideouts for criminal activity.
The operation, led by the Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Ekundayo Alebiosu, is part of the state government’s ongoing initiative to reclaim and secure key coastal corridors in line with its Mega City Master Plan.
Alebiosu revealed that although the area was cleared in late 2023, shanties had resurfaced and quickly devolved into hotbeds of criminality.
According to him, the makeshift dwellings had become notorious for harbouring miscreants involved in armed robbery, drug trafficking, and other anti-social behaviour.
“This is not just about illegal structures; this is about public safety. During today’s operation, dangerous weapons and firearms were recovered, and arrests were made,” he said.
“These structures posed serious security and environmental risks, and allowing them to remain would have been a disservice to the law-abiding residents of Lagos.”
He added that the reclaimed land is designated for the development of a world-class Bluewater Scheme and coastal road infrastructure intended to enhance connectivity and boost the state’s tourism and transportation sectors.
“We cleared this large expanse of land late last year, and it is no longer business as usual. Any attempts to rebuild shanties or makeshift structures will be met with swift enforcement,” Alebiosu warned.
The Ministry further assured that continuous monitoring and periodic enforcement actions would be maintained to preserve the integrity of the reclaimed areas and prevent illegal resettlement.
“MWID remains steadfast in its mission to secure and transform all government-owned waterfronts across Lagos State, in alignment with the vision of a clean, secure, and globally competitive Mega City,” Alebiosu stated.
