The Lagos State Government has called on residents to take collective responsibility for protecting public infrastructure across the State, warning that vandalism and destruction of government facilities ultimately impose additional costs and risks on all Lagosians.
The government, in a public awareness message, highlighted the importance of facilities such as Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) buses, streetlights, traffic signs, bus stops and manhole covers to the daily lives and safety of residents.
According to the State Government, these facilities are not solely government property but public assets provided and maintained with resources belonging to the people.
It noted that every act of vandalism, whether the destruction of streetlights, removal of manhole covers, damage to traffic signs or vandalisation of bus stops, has consequences for the wider society.
The government explained that vandalised infrastructure creates a double burden for residents. While public funds must be spent on repairing or replacing damaged facilities, the destruction also exposes members of the public to avoidable safety risks.
It stressed that damaged streetlights can make roads and communities less secure at night, while missing manhole covers can pose serious dangers to pedestrians, particularly children. Similarly, damaged traffic signs and bus stops can affect road safety and public transportation.
The State Government therefore urged residents to see the protection of public infrastructure as a shared responsibility and to discourage acts of vandalism within their communities.
Residents were encouraged to speak up and report incidents of vandalism or damage to public facilities to the appropriate authorities.
The government emphasised that safeguarding public infrastructure is essential to maintaining a safe, functional and sustainable Lagos.
It called on residents to protect public assets for the benefit of both present and future generations, stressing that collective vigilance and responsible citizenship are necessary to preserve the State’s infrastructure.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining public facilities while urging Lagosians to partner with authorities in protecting them and ensuring that the State remains safe and conducive for everyone.
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