The Lagos State Taskforce on Environmental Offences better known as Taskforce has declared the habitual conduct of blocking roads for parties or religious events as illegal, warning those involved will face the full weight of the law.
The agency in a statement on Tuesday signed by its Director, Press & Public Affairs, Gbadeyan Abdulraheem, condemned “this practice entirely”, an act it said causes inconvenience to other residents and motorists.
The statement read partly, “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 cited deep concern expressed by the Chairman of the Agency, CSP Adetayo Akerele, over the growing trend of obstructing public roads for personal events, noting that such actions disrupt the lives of law-abiding citizens and pose serious security and safety risks.
“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,” he stated.
Akerele highlighted a recent incident where a social event on Raymond Njoku Street in Ikoyi was disrupted after the force responded to reports of traffic obstruction and noise pollution.
“The event was terminated, and key organisers were arrested.
“We are also aware of similar events on streets like Lawani Street in Yaba, Ganiyu Lamina Street at Ijaye Ojokoro, and other locations across the Lagos Metropolis. We are appealing to those involved in this practice to desist forthwith or face serious legal consequences,” he warned.
The Chairman further emphasised that the Lagos Taskforce will not tolerate any act that compromises environmental and public safety or inconveniences road users.
He stressed that enforcement actions will be taken against anyone found violating this directive.
“Blocking roads for parties or religious events is illegal, and those involved will face the full weight of the law.”
He urged residents to use designated event centres or obtain necessary permits from relevant authorities before organising gatherings that may impact public roads.
Akerele also reaffirmed the Lagos State Government’s commitment to ensuring a safer, more orderly environment for all residents.
“The Lagos State Taskforce, in collaboration with other security agencies, will conduct routine monitoring and swift enforcement to prevent further disruption of roads and inner streets. Residents are encouraged to report any road obstructions through the Taskforce’s ‘See Something, Say Something’ initiative to ensure prompt intervention,” the statement mentioned.
