Ikeja Local Government to Enforce Ban on Scavenging, Street Trading, Cart Pushing, and SGBV-Related Nuisances from January 1, 2026
IKEJA — The Executive Chairman of Ikeja Local Government, Comrade Akeem Olalekan Dauda (AKOD), has announced that full enforcement of new security and environmental regulations in the council will commence on January 1, 2026. The measures target scavenging, street trading, cart pushing, and sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), in a bid to enhance safety, order, and livability across Ikeja.
The announcement was made at a high-level press conference held at the Executive Chairman’s Conference Room, Ikeja House, which drew heads of security agencies operating in Ikeja, including the Nigeria Police, Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Corps (LNSC), Civil Defence, DSS, Immigration, KAI, and the National Orientation Agency. Also present were community leaders, youth representatives, market associations, religious bodies, CDC officials, the Iyaloja of Ikeja, and members of the council’s management and legislative teams, led by Council Manager Mrs. Juliana Taiwo Odubeko and Leader of the House, Hon. Rasheed Adisa Ogunseye.
In his address, Chairman AKOD stressed that the new measures are aimed at restoring order, strengthening security, and promoting sustainable development in Ikeja. He outlined the four main areas of enforcement:
1. Ban on Scavengers (“Boola”)
The Chairman highlighted that scavenging activities have been linked to theft, vandalism of public property, and insecurity. Going forward, only licensed and traceable waste operators will be permitted to operate.
2. Ban on Street Trading and Hawking
AKOD noted that street trading contributes to traffic congestion, environmental hazards, and exposes traders to avoidable risks. Safer, regulated trading spaces will be provided within designated markets.
3. Ban on Cart Pushing
Cart pushing has been associated with illegal refuse dumping and security breaches, particularly at night. The council will phase out this practice and implement a more structured waste disposal system.
4. Zero Tolerance for Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV)
The council plans a community-driven approach to curb SGBV, ensuring protection for women, children, and vulnerable persons. Collaboration with security agencies will facilitate rapid response, prosecution support, and survivor-centered interventions.
Chairman AKOD reiterated that enforcement operations will involve joint efforts from all relevant security agencies and government units. He called on residents, market leaders, religious institutions, transport unions, and the general public to fully comply and cooperate with the new measures.
“We owe our people a cleaner, safer, and more organized Ikeja. This administration will not compromise on security and public safety. January 1st marks the beginning of strict enforcement, and we call on everyone to support this renewed commitment to a better Ikeja,” the Chairman declared.
He concluded by thanking stakeholders for their support and reaffirmed the council’s dedication to the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, emphasizing security, welfare, and community development as top priorities.
