Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, has revealed on Wednesday the startling discovery of an apartment nestled beneath the Dolphin Estate Bridge in Ikoyi.
The tenants were reportedly paying an annual rent of N250,000 for the cramped quarters.
Wahab who disclosed this via his X handle, added that the sub-bridge apartment comprised 86 partitioned rooms, with dimensions ranging from “10×10” to “12×10″.
“A total number of 86 rooms, partitioned into 10×10 and 12×10, and a container used for different illegal activities were discovered under the Dolphin Estate Bridge.
“They have all been removed by the enforcement team of the Lagos State Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources,” he wrote.
The Commissioner also shared videos alongside his announcement depicting the enforcement team dismantling structures, including a container allegedly used for illicit activities.
Special Adviser to Governor, Kunle Rotimi-Akodu, also revealed that in a coordinated effort, officials from the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC), commonly known as KAI, had earlier on Tuesday, conducted an eviction operation, removing squatters and arresting 23 individuals.
He stated, “Squatters dwelling under the bridge leading from inward Dolphin Estate, Ikoyi were evicted today Tuesday, 30th of April, 2024 by officials of the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps LAGESC (aka KAI).
“These people created their illegal settlement under the bridge, thereby exposing the critical infrastructure to impending destruction. 23 persons have so far been arrested and MoE/KAI will continue to monitor the place. The law will take its course.”
He also emphasized the necessity of reclaiming the critical infrastructure and ensuring the safety of the area, while verifying that the bridge accommodated a total of 86 rooms, divided into dimensions of 10×10 and 12×10, with squatters paying an average annual rent of N250,000.
Rotimi-Akodu reiterated that the law would be rigorously enforced to prevent further illegal settlements and potential hazards.
“Continuation of the removal of abode under Dolphin bridge. 11 more persons were arrested. It is important to note that wood materials were used to construct the shelters, some occupants used gas cylinders, and some had stored fuel for their generators, these are recipes for disaster,” he added.
