Daud Olatunji
At least 168 solar-powered streetlights installed along the Longbridge section of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway have been stolen by suspected vandals, plunging parts of the busy highway into darkness and raising fresh concerns about road safety and security.
The lighting infrastructure was installed in 2025 along the approximately five-kilometre bridge to improve visibility for motorists, particularly at night, and reduce the risk of crashes and criminal activities on the strategic route.
However, the gradual removal of the streetlights has reportedly left several sections of the bridge without adequate illumination.
The development has triggered concern among motorists and business operators who use the highway, with fears that the return of darkness could expose road users to increased risks of accidents and attacks.
The theft also raises questions about the protection of public infrastructure on one of the country’s busiest inter-state highways.
The Federal Controller of Works in Ogun State, Richard Adeleye, confirmed that the streetlights had been stolen, adding that some suspected vandals had been arrested and prosecuted.
The Ogun State Police Command also confirmed the arrest of suspected vandals allegedly targeting critical infrastructure along the axis.
The authorities’ confirmation came amid calls for stronger surveillance and more effective protection of public facilities along the highway.
Residents and other stakeholders have equally been urged to report suspicious movements and activities around the infrastructure to security agencies.
The Lagos-Ibadan Expressway is a major transportation corridor linking Lagos with Ogun and other parts of the country and handles heavy traffic daily, including commercial vehicles, private cars and long-distance trucks.
The loss of the streetlights is therefore likely to have implications beyond aesthetics, particularly during the night when visibility is already reduced.
Motorists have urged the relevant authorities to replace the stolen facilities and strengthen security around the remaining installations to prevent further vandalism.
Stakeholders also called for sustained monitoring of public infrastructure, warning that replacing stolen facilities without addressing the underlying security challenge could lead to repeated losses.
The development comes amid continuing concerns over the vandalism and theft of public infrastructure across the country, with electricity installations, railway assets, road furniture and other government facilities frequently targeted by criminals.
For motorists using the Longbridge section, the immediate concern remains the restoration of adequate lighting and the prevention of further attacks on the infrastructure.
'
'Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
