Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has visited a bridge along the Lagos-Badagry Expressway following reports of vandalism at the facility, assuring residents that the incident did not pose any threat to the structural integrity of the bridge.
The governor inspected the affected section at Vin-Niger, within the Amuwo-Odofin Local Government Area, on Saturday as part of efforts to determine the extent of the damage.
Following his assessment, Sanwo-Olu disclosed that the construction work on the bridge remained stable despite the actions of the suspected vandals.
He explained that the perpetrators had interfered with parts of the bridge and taken away some of the fittings installed as part of the construction process.
The governor strongly criticised the incident, describing the destruction and theft of government property as unacceptable. He assured residents that relevant authorities would pursue those responsible and ensure they were made to answer for their actions.
Sanwo-Olu also warned individuals involved in the purchase, storage or resale of stolen government materials that they could face prosecution if investigations establish their involvement.
According to him, the law would be applied equally to anyone found connected to the crime, irrespective of their position, influence or social standing.
The governor said the situation was particularly troubling because the state had continued to commit substantial financial resources to improving roads, bridges, drainage systems and other infrastructure across Lagos.
He further revealed that authorities had recorded similar cases of vandalism in Festac Town, where drainage covers were reportedly destroyed and metal components removed from infrastructure along Second and Seventh Avenues.
Sanwo-Olu appealed to residents to assist security agencies by reporting suspicious behaviour around public facilities. He stressed that protecting government infrastructure should not be left solely to officials and security personnel.
The governor noted that authorities could not monitor every public facility continuously, making community participation important in preventing vandalism and theft.
He commended officers of the Lagos State Police Command, the Rapid Response Squad and the Lagos State Neighbourhood Watch, as well as members of the Kick Against Indiscipline initiative, for their prompt response to the incident.
Sanwo-Olu said his administration would continue taking steps to restore order along the Lagos-Badagry Expressway and protect infrastructure situated along the busy corridor.
While speaking with traders, commuters and residents around Alaba Rago and Orile, the governor acknowledged improvements recorded through ongoing efforts to reorganise activities and improve conditions along the route.
He assured motorists and other road users that the government remained committed to making the corridor safer, more accessible and better organised.
Sanwo-Olu added that the state would continue working with security agencies to tackle vandalism and other forms of criminal activity while strengthening measures aimed at safeguarding public property.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly alert the appropriate authorities whenever they observe activities capable of damaging or compromising government infrastructure.
