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The Ogun state government has begun the demolition of shanties which were illegally constructed on set-backs along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.
The development came after the state government said it could no longer tolerate the “nuisance” caused by these roadside buildings.
The flag-off ceremony took place at Kara, OPIC axis in Isheri, Obafemi Owode local government area of the state on Tuesday.
Speaking at the event, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Environment, Mr Farook Akintunde lamented that the structures marred the aesthetic beauty of the state.
Akintunde added that the state is the gateway through commuters pass to many other states, thus, it must wear some beauties.
If further noted that the state government had forewarned the traders on the roadside to no avail.
He added that these places are unsanitized and are capable of harbouring criminals.
He said: “The state government will not fold its arms and watch these shanties deface the aesthetic beauty of the state which is the gateway to many states of the federation.
“These structures are not only an eyesore, they harbour criminals who disguise as traders during daytime but perpetuate their nefarious activities in the night”
“Aside from these, the genuine traders among them sell in a filthy environment which breeds rodents and vectors which have adverse health implications on those that patronize them especially unsuspecting commuters to the state who desire to have quickly fixed meals”.
Akintunde however, advised traders to move to organised and recognised markets which would be more accommodating as planned by the state government.
