BY: AYO AGBEOLUWAYE
Lagos lawmakers have called for urgent action to tackle the rising vandalism of public infrastructure across the state following a viral video showing suspected vandals removing iron rods, steel reinforcements and cables from the Festac Town–Alakija Link Bridge.
The House, in a unanimous resolution, warned that the growing destruction of public assets threatens public safety and undermines government investments in critical infrastructure. Lawmakers stressed the need for swift intervention to protect residents and ensure the safety of motorists who rely on the facilities daily.
Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Mudashiru Obasa, urged authorities to strengthen enforcement measures while ensuring that legitimate operators are not unfairly affected. He noted that prosecuting offenders could be challenging due to congestion in correctional facilities and called for a broader strategy that includes stronger enforcement, prosecution and punishment. He added that the establishment of state-owned correctional centres could help address the challenge.
Obasa also called for improved standards and greater capacity within the Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Corps (LNSC), urging the agency to take a more active role in detecting, preventing and reporting vandalism. He further advocated stronger implementation of existing laws protecting public infrastructure.
The motion was moved by Hon. Moshood Aro, who urged the Nigeria Police Force, Rapid Response Squad (RRS), Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI) and other security agencies to increase surveillance around bridges, highways and other strategic assets across the state.
Aro also called for intelligence-driven operations to identify and prosecute vandals, as well as those involved in buying and selling stolen infrastructure materials. He urged residents to report suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities.
The House reaffirmed its commitment to working with the executive arm of government to protect public infrastructure, strengthen enforcement efforts and ensure compliance with existing laws.
