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By John Ogunsemore
Ikeja Local Government of Lagos State has refuted a social media report alleging an “unauthorised” installation of an iron gate on the pedestrian bridge across the railway corridor at Ikeja Along, opposite Ajayi Farm Bus Stop, Lagos.
Broadcast journalist, Rufai Oseni made the report in an X post on Thursday.
He decried the “unauthorised” installation of an iron gate on “federal pedestrian bridge” by individuals or a community group acting on approval from Ikeja LG authority.
He said this action on a public infrastructure meant for unrestricted pedestrian use has “restricted public access, posed safety and emergency risks”.
“I am aware that railway assets and pedestrian bridges fall under the jurisdiction of the Nigerian Railway Corporation, and as such, any structural modification or access control should only be executed with official authorisation,” he said.
Oseni also attached photos showing the iron gate.
The Ikeja LG authority responded to the report through a Friday statement signed by Chief Press Secretary to the Council Chairman, Olalekan Oni.
Oni described Oseni’s commentary as “misinformation”, stating that the pedestrian bridge is owned by the Lagos State Government, not the Nigerian Railway Corporation nor the Federal Government as erroneously claimed.
He further disclosed that the decision leading to the Installation of the gate was not arbitrary, clandestine, or unlawful, noting that the corridor has gained notoriety for criminal activities including robbery, pickpocketing, rape, vandalism, and other violent acts.
The statement reads, ”
Our attention has been drawn to a publication and commentary by Rufai Oseni of Arise TV alleging an “unauthorised installation of an iron gate” on the pedestrian bridge across the railway corridor at Ikeja Along, opposite Ajayi Farm Bus Stop, Lagos.
Ordinarily, we would not dignify misinformation with a response.
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“However, in the interest of public clarity and to prevent the spread of inaccurate narratives capable of misleading the public, it has become necessary to set the record straight.
“First, the infrastructure in question is owned by the Lagos State Government, not the Nigerian Railway Corporation nor the Federal Government as erroneously claimed.
“The assertion that it falls exclusively under federal jurisdiction is therefore factually incorrect.”
He added, “Second, the decision leading to the installation of the gate was not arbitrary, clandestine, or unlawful. It was sequel to a stakeholders’ engagement involving the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), representatives of the affected community, and the Local Government Council. This engagement became necessary following the cordoning of the railway tracks and the growing security concerns within that corridor.
“For years, that corridor has gained notoriety for criminal activities including robbery, pickpocketing, rape, vandalism, and other violent acts.
“Residents, commuters, and particularly community youths have been the primary victims of these recurring crimes. The situation demanded proactive intervention.”
Oni disclosed that within the past year, the Member representing Ikeja Federal Constituency, Hon. James Abiodun Faleke facilitated the installation of 20 solar-powered streetlights along the corridor in an effort to improve visibility and security, but all 20 streetlights were vandalised and completely removed; including poles, pipes, and electrical components within three months.
This, he said, underscores the severity of the security challenge in that location.
He said, “The gate was therefore erected as a security measure, aimed strictly at safeguarding lives and property which remains the primary constitutional responsibility of government, including the Local Government.
“The measure was taken in good faith, and in consultation with relevant stakeholders, and in response to persistent threats to public safety.”
He expressed disappointment that Oseni made weighty allegations without verification from the Landlords’ Association, the Community Development Association (CDA) leadership, the Local Government authority, LAMATA, or even the community youth who bear the brunt of the criminal activities in that corridor.
He maintained that the safety and welfare of Ikeja residents remain paramount to council administration, adding that any intervention undertaken is guided by law, stakeholder engagement, and the overriding objective of protecting lives and property.
