Lagos Govt Gives 7-Day Ultimatum to Remove Illegal Street Gates

The Lagos State government has given a seven-day deadline for the removal of all unauthorised street gates across the state, warning that many of them are blocking roads and worsening traffic.

The Ministry of Transportation issued the directive on Tuesday, December 23, noting that several gated streets either keep their gates permanently locked or open them only to pedestrians, excluding vehicles. The government said this has forced motorists to abandon shorter inner routes and has contributed to heavy traffic on major roads.

The state also reminded communities with approved street gates that these must remain open daily from 5:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., especially during the festive period when travel, commercial activities and vehicle movements are higher than usual.

In its statement, the Ministry of Transportation explained that the order is in line with existing state guidelines aimed at ensuring free flow of traffic, protecting lives and property and supporting a better business environment in Lagos.

While the government acknowledged that gated streets can offer security benefits, it stressed that such measures must not block public roads or create unnecessary bottlenecks, particularly on alternative routes that many residents now rely on to avoid gridlock.

The government therefore directed all communities that have installed street gates to comply immediately with the opening hours and remove any unauthorised barriers within seven days, warning that enforcement actions may follow where violations persist.