It remains uncertain whether the state government is aware of or has sanctioned the imposed levy. Pedestrians in Lagos carrying heavy luggage are now reportedly required to pay a N100 levy before accessing the Yaba pedestrian bridge.
A video circulating on Instagram by Guardian Nigeria showcased a thug demanding payment from two women carrying loads before allowing them to ascend the bridge. Meanwhile, pedestrians without loads were seen freely crossing the bridge.
The video’s caption highlighted the imposition of the N100 fee on pedestrians carrying loads at the Yaba pedestrian bridge, coinciding with the crackdown on jaywalking in Lagos. Concerned citizens online are urging the state government to address this matter.
Peoples Gazette is yet to confirm if the levy is enforced at other pedestrian bridges in the state. Additionally, it remains unclear if the state government is aware of or has authorized this levy.
Efforts to reach Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s special adviser on media and publicity, Gboyega Akosile, were unsuccessful. At the time of reporting, calls to his phone went unanswered, and messages were unreturned.
In recent times, security agencies in Lagos have been arresting and prosecuting individuals who sleep on the bridge, aiming to encourage the use of pedestrian bridges and reduce the risk of accidents on highways.
