By Engr. Bola Babarinde
Former Chairman, APC South Africa
I recently stumbled upon a viral video concerning the demolition of illegal structures in Aworonsoki, Lagos. One of the affected property owners, a civil servant, spoke passionately about her experience, arguing that the government should have issued prior notice before carrying out the exercise. While she has a valid point about due process and professionalism, particularly regarding allegations that touts were engaged to assist the demolishers, the deeper issue revealed by her own narration was quite glaring. The demolished structures had no approved government plan.
This fact alone weakens their case against the Lagos State Government. It exposes a persistent attitude of disregard for the law, an unfortunate reflection of the broader culture of audacity in lawlessness that has eaten deep into our society. We sympathize with the victims for their loss, but such sympathy must not overshadow the reality that many citizens consciously build without approval, ignoring the legal framework meant to ensure safety and order in the state.
Lawlessness has become a troubling identity among many Nigerians, particularly in urban centers like Lagos. From unapproved buildings to reckless driving, disregard for rules has been normalized and, sadly, even celebrated. It is common to see motorists flout traffic regulations with impunity, hurling insults at anyone who dares to correct them as though orderliness were a crime.
Public hygiene is another area where this attitude is evident. People shamelessly throw waste from moving vehicles, endangering the environment and public health. Many behave as though the absence of immediate punishment justifies their misconduct. This culture of impunity fuels the decay in our public spaces and erodes the moral foundation of our communities.
The yellow buses, popularly known as danfos, are another menace on Lagos roads. Many of their drivers and conductors operate without respect for traffic lights or pedestrian safety. Even when traffic officers are on duty, they often disregard them. Yes, corruption among a few enforcement officers exists, but it should never be an excuse for citizens to embrace chaos and endanger lives.
Another growing problem in Lagos is the invasion of roads and public spaces by scrap collectors and cart pushers. Many of these individuals are non-indigenes, some even foreigners who neither understand our local languages nor respect our civic laws. Their unchecked operations have led to increased cases of theft of public infrastructure such as metal drain covers, further worsening the city’s environmental and security challenges. This situation reflects years of weak enforcement, but thankfully, the current administration is taking steps to restore order.
The Lagos State Government under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu deserves commendation for allowing capable officials like Mr. Gbolahan Owodunmi Oki, head of the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LABSCA), to carry out their duties without political interference. Mr. Oki’s courage in enforcing building regulations despite criticism and pressure demonstrates commitment to the long-term vision of a well-planned and orderly Lagos.
True leadership requires difficult decisions. It may not always be popular, but it is essential for progress. We must resist the temptation to romanticize lawlessness simply because enforcement inconveniences us. No city can thrive in disorder, and no nation can develop when citizens treat laws as optional.
For Lagos, and indeed Nigeria, to become a better and safer place, citizens must embrace the rule of law. We must understand that laws exist not to punish us but to protect us and ensure fairness for all. Pride in lawlessness is not a virtue; it is a virus that destroys nations from within. Let us be law-abiding citizens in our daily lives, whether on the roads, in our businesses, or in how we build our homes. The future of Lagos depends on citizens who respect laws, not those who exploit loopholes or defy them for selfish gain.
Kudos to Governor Sanwo-Olu for standing firm on the side of order and progress. May Lagos continue to rise as a city of discipline, innovation, and pride for all law-abiding residents.
Long live Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. Long live Lagos State. Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
