Ikeja Local Government authorities said that their attention has been drawn to a publication and commentary by Rufai Oseni of Arise TV alleging an “unauthorized installation of an iron gate” on the pedestrian bridge across the railway corridor at Ikeja Along, opposite Ajayi Farm Bus Stop, Lagos.
Reacting to Rufai Oseni’s submission without seeking for clarification, Ikeja Local Government, in a statement signed by Olalekan Oni, Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Chairman said, “Ordinarily, we would not dignify misinformation with a response. 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.”
“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.”
“It is on record that within the past year, the Member representing Ikeja Federal Constituency, Hon. Dr James Abiodun Faleke, facilitated the installation of 20 solar-powered streetlights along the corridor in an effort to improve visibility and security. Shockingly, within three months, all 20 streetlights were vandalized and completely removed; including poles, pipes, and electrical components. This underscores the severity of the security challenge in that location.”
“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.”
“It is both disappointing and professionally appalling that such weighty allegations were made 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. Responsible journalism requires balanced inquiry and fact-checking before public dissemination.”
“We urge Rufai Oseni to uphold the highest standards of journalistic integrity by seeking clarification from all relevant stakeholders before presenting speculative narratives as facts.”
“The safety and welfare of Ikeja residents remain paramount to this administration. Any intervention undertaken is guided by law, stakeholder engagement, and the overriding objective of protecting lives and property.”
“We remain open to constructive dialogue, but we firmly reject misrepresentation of facts.”