Pedestrians Alarmed by Criminal Presence on Lagos State Bridges

Pedestrians using the PWD, Ladipo, Oshodi, and Berger bridges in Lagos State have raised concerns about the presence of intimidating individuals who have taken over these bridges, creating unsafe conditions for those needing to cross.

According to Valid View Network’s report on Sunday, pedestrians have expressed distress over having to navigate these bridges, especially at night, due to the risk posed by these individuals, who are suspected of engaging in criminal activities such as theft.

During a visit by our correspondent to the PWD, Ladipo, and Oshodi pedestrian bridges, it was observed that these locations were frequented by mentally challenged individuals and aggressive-looking individuals.

Several pedestrians mentioned that they prefer to cross the busy expressway instead of using the bridges, attributing this choice to the presence of these individuals.

Chigozie, a shop owner, highlighted concerns about vandalism affecting parts of the bridges and the lack of government oversight. He emphasized that the government should take proactive measures such as deploying security officials to monitor the bridges and enforce regulations to discourage crossing the highway.

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Alaka Sunday, a vulcanizer, shared a harrowing experience of witnessing a robbery on the Shogunle pedestrian bridge at night, underscoring the increasing danger faced by pedestrians due to criminal activities.

Similarly, Iya Basit, a trader, urged the government to address the menace posed by these individuals on bridges like those in Bolade and Oshodi, where theft incidents are common.

A driver commuting between Berger and Oshodi raised concerns about petty thefts perpetrated by these individuals, emphasizing the need for intervention by the government to ensure the safety of pedestrians and commuters.

In response to these concerns, the State Police Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, acknowledged the complaints and assured that the Commissioner of Police is aware. He emphasized that efforts are being intensified to combat criminal activities and apprehend perpetrators operating in these areas.

Hundeyin reiterated the commitment of the police to reduce criminal activities and prosecute offenders, offering reassurance to the public affected by these security challenges.