Lagos Taskforce Stops Illegal Street Party In Yaba, Reopens Blocked Road

The Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences (Enforcement) Unit, popularly known as the Taskforce, has stopped an unauthorised street party in Yaba after organisers illegally blocked part of a public road for a private anniversary celebration.

The incident occurred on Lawani Street, off University Road, Yaba, where one lane of the roadway was cordoned off for the event, causing traffic disruption along a route serving as an alternative corridor due to ongoing road construction nearby.

Acting on intelligence, the Chairman of the Lagos State Taskforce, CSP Adetayo Akerele, deployed enforcement officers to the scene. The operatives dismantled the illegal barricades and confiscated canopies, chairs, tables and other items used to obstruct the road, restoring the free flow of traffic.

Speaking after the operation, Akerele condemned the growing trend of converting public roads into venues for private social events, stressing that no individual has the right to appropriate public infrastructure for personal celebrations.

He warned residents and event organisers against blocking roads for parties and other social activities, urging them to use designated event centres or obtain the necessary approvals where applicable.

“Public roads are constructed for the benefit of all Lagosians and must not be converted into private event spaces. Anyone found obstructing traffic or blocking public roads for social activities will face the full weight of the law,” he said.

The Taskforce chairman also urged residents to support enforcement efforts by reporting activities that obstruct road networks, endanger public safety or degrade the environment through the agency’s emergency lines or social media platforms.

He reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to enforcing existing laws and maintaining order, safety and free movement across Lagos State.