“Lagos Begins 72 Hour Eviction of Illegal Shanties Along Lagos Badagry Expressway as Sanwo Olu Targets Urban Renewal”

“Lagos Begins 72 Hour Eviction of Illegal Shanties Along Lagos Badagry Expressway as Sanwo Olu Targets Urban Renewal”

The Lagos State Government has issued a 72 hour quit notice to occupants of illegal shanties and makeshift structures along the Lagos Badagry Expressway, signaling the commencement of a fresh enforcement exercise aimed at restoring order, improving public safety, and protecting critical infrastructure.

Governor Babajide Sanwo Olu directed the removal of the illegal structures as part of the state’s broader urban renewal and environmental sanitation agenda. According to the government, the affected settlements obstruct road expansion projects, contribute to environmental degradation, and pose security and public health concerns. Authorities urged all affected occupants to vacate the locations within the stipulated period to avoid forced demolition.

State officials said the operation is designed to reclaim public spaces, improve traffic flow, and enhance the overall appearance and functionality of one of Lagos’ busiest transport corridors. The Lagos Badagry Expressway is a strategic route connecting Nigeria’s commercial capital to neighboring communities and the Republic of Benin, making it a priority for ongoing infrastructure development.

The planned demolition follows previous clearance exercises carried out across different parts of Lagos as the state government intensifies efforts to remove illegal developments on road setbacks, drainage channels, and other public rights-of-way. While officials maintain that the exercise is necessary for public interest and sustainable urban development, similar operations have previously attracted calls from civil society groups for authorities to ensure that affected residents are treated humanely and in accordance with applicable laws.

The Lagos State Government has advised all affected individuals to comply with the evacuation directive within the 72 hour deadline, warning that enforcement teams will proceed with demolition once the notice expires.