Closed gate on Olakunle Selesi Street in Ajao Estate…Photo: ENIOLA DANIEL
Residents of Lagos are increasingly alarmed by a trend that sees street gates closed during emergencies. They report that locked gates have become the norm, often hindering timely rescues during critical incidents. Victims in need of help sometimes suffer due to delayed access for emergency responders.
The closing of gates on various streets has caused significant inconvenience for residents. Reports indicate that some gates are deliberately locked to restrict access, exacerbating traffic congestion, particularly in areas where these streets serve as vital alternative routes. The situation has raised questions about safety and community management.
In response to these concerns, Lagos state authorities issued directives in both 2016 and 2020, mandating the reopening of all street gates and barricades between 5 AM and midnight. Officials warned of potential removals for those who fail to comply. The government argues that these access controls are obstructing emergency services, thus impeding firefighters and police from reaching incidents swiftly, and frustrating citizens trying to get to hospitals.
An investigation revealed that compliance with the government mandate has been sporadic. While a few communities adhere to the regulations, many upscale areas remain resistant. A recent visit by The Guardian to Olakunle Seleshi Street in Ajao Estate revealed locked gates, and attempts to interview the local landowners association chair were unsuccessful.
Chairman of the Community Development Association (CDA) Isokhan, Fawolu Kazeem, defended the closure of the Akanji Odutlu Street gate, citing security as a primary concern. He relayed a recent incident where a luxury bus transporting passengers was pursued by gunmen. The driver, realizing he was being followed, arrived at their gate just as gunfire erupted. Kazeem argued that if the gate had been open, it could have led to further victimization.
Kazeem further emphasized that the safety of residents is paramount. Plans are in place to open the gates from 7 AM to 7 PM, although construction work on the nearby Oshodi-Apapa Expressway has complicated matters. He mentioned the community’s vigilance in monitoring stranger activity, reflecting on the past leadership experiences of local figures such as a former Inspector General of Police who prioritized security by questioning unfamiliar individuals.
The Lagos State Police Command has also pointed to gated communities as a contributing factor to delayed response times to distress calls. Mr. Adekunle Ajisebutu, the state Police Public Relations Officer, addressed this issue during a recent visit to The Guardian, highlighting the challenges posed by ongoing construction and traffic congestion, as well as the presence of gated estates. Ajisebutu affirmed the commitment of police to improve response times while navigating these obstacles.
