The Lagos State government has demolished a traditional shrine located in the Ile Epo area of Iyana Ipaja.
The move, announced by Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, underscores the government’s commitment to upholding environmental guidelines amid escalating tensions.
The demolition, which took place on August 8, 2024, was carried out by the Lagos State Parks and Gardens Agency (LASPARK) in conjunction with the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC).
The shrine, situated near Moshalasi Bus Stop, was reportedly under construction at a site deemed inappropriate due to its proximity to a major road, violating the state’s environmental standards.
Commissioner Wahab took to social media to detail the situation, stating, “After several stop-work notices served and physical assault on the personnel of the Lagos State Parks and Gardens Agency @LASPARKLagos, the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps @LAGESCOfficial earlier today removed the shrine constructed close to a main road at Moshalasi Bus Stop, Ile Epo in Iyana Ipaja.”
According to Wahab, the construction of the shrine was flagged for environmental violations due to its location, which posed a risk to public safety and traffic flow.
The shrine’s placement was deemed a significant environmental nuisance, prompting the authorities to act decisively.
“The Lagos State government is again warning everyone to desist from constituting any form of environmental nuisance on the State parks and gardens as this will be met with prosecution,” Wahab added in his post.