Residents of Lekki Phase 1 express their worries about rising crime rates, persistent environmental pollution, and the imperative to safeguard their neighborhoods from issues such as open prostitution and drug peddling. Contrary to recent discussions highlighting occasional traffic congestion during festive seasons, the community emphasizes broader concerns.
Lekki Phase 1 is interconnected by eight major roads, including Admiralty Way, Adebayo Dorethy Road, Durosimi Etti Way, Fola Osibo Road, Hakeem Dickson, Providence Road, and Adewunmi Adebimpe Drive. Unlike common misconceptions, these roads lack gates, allowing continuous traffic flow during non-peak periods, consistent with other areas in Lagos.
Distinguishing between traffic control, congestion, and management, residents argue that the introduction of street gates is not a direct cause of traffic issues. Instead, they attribute congestion to inadequate traffic management policies, subpar planning, irresponsible driving, and poor road conditions, asserting that these factors contribute to Lagos’ overall traffic challenges.
Addressing the contentious topic of street gates, residents stress that their presence results from government shortcomings in delivering innovative solutions for uncontrolled urban development. Street gates have historical roots in Lagos, dating back to the late ’80s, when they served as defensive measures against armed robbery epidemics.
Residents contend that when government institutions falter, communities step in to protect themselves, utilizing defensive systems to maintain order. They argue that rather than criticize such measures, authorities should focus on addressing the root causes—poor security infrastructure, inadequate enforcement of planning laws, and the failure to combat environmental threats.
Residents assert their right to self-protection against societal nuisances and external forces when governmental obligations under the constitution are unmet. They call for a shift in the government’s perspective, urging it to view citizens as the ultimate owners of the constitution and to prioritize security and welfare issues over grandstanding.
In conclusion, concerned groups and residents underscore the need to address critical issues such as environmental pollution, security threats, property vandalism, illegal conversions, uncontrolled urban development, and the influx of miscreants. The community maintains that only by acknowledging and rectifying these concerns can a collaborative effort be achieved in ensuring the safety and well-being of Lekki Phase 1 residents.
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