The Lagos State Ministry of Transportation has raised concerns over the rising trend of unauthorised gate installations in some communities, particularly in the Lekki axis.
The ministry observed that many gates were erected without its approval, while some of the approved gates were being mismanaged as residents failed to follow established guidelines for gated streets.
The ministry stated that the non-compliance disrupts traffic flow, hampers emergency response access, and threatens public safety.
To address the situation, the government issued a warning and outlined enforcement measures.
In a Monday statement, the Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, said, “All gates and barriers installed without prior authorisation from the Lagos State Government are illegal and will be removed.
“Any unauthorised gate or barrier must be dismantled within seven days of this announcement. Failure to comply will result in enforcement actions, including removal and penalties, in line with existing regulations.
“Gates or barriers on public roads or streets must remain fully open for public use between 5 am and 10 pm daily, to ensure interconnectivity and the free flow of traffic across the state.”
He added that all approved gates or barriers must be manned by security personnel engaged by the Community Development Associations.
However, between 10 pm and 5 am, the gates or barriers may remain closed but must be opened promptly in the event of an emergency to allow free access and exit for first responders.
He urged all residents and CDAs to strictly comply with the guidelines to foster a safe, efficient, and connected transportation network across the state.
