For years, traders under Apongbon Bridge have relied on the busy location to sustain their livelihoods.
Now, for the first time, a dark cloud hovers above them.
The Lagos State Government has given them just 48 hours to vacate the area.
The Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, announced the directive during an inspection of the Savage/Elegbata/Bombata Drainage Channel on Thursday.
He stressed that illegal structures were obstructing drainage systems, increasing the risk of flooding and endangering lives.
Wahab noted that traders had converted the area under the bridge into a livestock market and must relocate to designated spaces.
He also revealed that authorities had sealed two buildings under construction on Alakoro Martins Street and at Ebute Ero Market because the owners had stacked materials on drainage paths.
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Officials have ordered the owners to clear the blockages before they can resume work.
Wahab warned that failure to comply within 48 hours would lead to strict enforcement and penalties.
Authorities will monitor the area to ensure compliance and prevent further encroachment.
The commissioner reaffirmed the government’s commitment to working with local authorities to provide better market spaces and enforce environmental laws.
He urged traders and residents to support efforts to maintain infrastructure and keep the environment clean.
With the deadline looming, traders must now find alternative locations as the government moves to restore order and safeguard critical infrastructure across Lagos.
