Tension flared in Lagos on Thursday, August 8, as the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC) demolished a shrine near Moshalasi Bus Stop in Ile Epo, Iyana Ipaja.
The action, which followed several stop-work notices and reports of physical assault on state officials, has drawn reactions from residents.
According to the Lagos State Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, the shrine was erected close to a main road, constituting an environmental nuisance.
The ministry emphasised that the demolition was in line with the state’s commitment to maintaining public safety and order, particularly in areas designated as parks and gardens.
“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,” said Tokunbo Wahab, Commissioner for the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources.
Removing the shrine has sparked mixed reactions from the social media community.
“Shrine, where are the gods? Kits like hand gloves, nose masks, etc. should be available for such demolition next time, sir,” an X handle, @holakennydaniel, wrote.
@Engr_Series wrote, “Good job… but let’s try to instil safety when carrying out such operations. Steel-cap safety boots, not office shoes, nose mask against dust, etc. Safety first!”
“If Lagos state can break a shrine close to the road, you think they can’t break ur house if it’s illegally constructed on the main road dey play,” @Hibeek_ng wrote.
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