In Lagos, pedestrians with heavy luggage are now facing a new challenge: a mandatory N100 levy imposed by thugs before they can access the Yaba pedestrian bridge.
A widely circulated video on Instagram by Guardian Nigeria depicts scenes of individuals being blocked from climbing the bridge by a thug until they pay the demanded N100 fee. Interestingly, pedestrians without loads seem to have unimpeded access to the bridge.
The video has sparked concern among citizens, especially in light of the ongoing crackdown on jaywalking in Lagos. Many social media users, including those on X (formerly Twitter), are calling on the state government to address this issue promptly.
It remains uncertain whether this levy is enforced on other pedestrian bridges across the state. Furthermore, it’s unclear whether the state government is aware of or has sanctioned this imposed fee.
Efforts to reach Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s media and publicity adviser, Gboyega Akosile, for comments proved unsuccessful. Akosile did not respond to calls or messages at the time of reporting.
Recently, security agencies in Lagos have been cracking down on miscreants sleeping on bridges, aiming to promote the use of bridges by pedestrians and reduce the risks associated with crossing highways.
