The Lagos State Taskforce says it will henceforth arrest and charge anyone found guilty of blocking inner streets for parties or social events to the mobile court.

In a statement on Tuesday, the agency’s chairman, CSP Shola Jejeloye, said it was selfish and inconsiderate for some people to take actions that cause discomfort to other law-abiding citizens deliberately.

He condemned how some residents celebrate social activities like birthday parties and naming ceremonies on streets and roads, thereby inconveniencing other road users and constituting a nuisance to society.

Ms Jejeloye appealed to Lagos residents in the habit of blocking streets and roads for celebrations to desist immediately or face the wrath of the law.

“It is highly unacceptable that one would selfishly and ignorantly cordoned off an entire street to throw parties and social events, thereby causing noise pollution and traffic gridlock in the area.

“It is the height of irresponsibility, and henceforth, anyone caught carrying out such a foolish act will be arrested and charged to the mobile court immediately,” he said.

The chairman stated that such practices were predominant in Lagos Island, Oworonshoki and Agege, warning that the task force would increase surveillance to curb the menace.

Mr Jejeloye said the agency had to disrupt a birthday celebration on the street in Yaba because attendees occupied 95 per cent of the road, slowing down vehicular movement and inconveniencing other road users.

He listed locations across the state that were either privately owned or run by the government, suitable for social events and which could be used after obtaining requisite approval.

Mr Jejeloye warned that permission must be sought from the appropriate authorities and a copy of the approval submitted at the agency headquarters before carrying out planned social events.

“Members of the public are urged to please report any activity of blockage of inner streets or roads for social gathering to the nearest police station or the Lagos State Taskforce for necessary action.

“All hands must be on deck to ensure that sanity is maintained in the metropolis,” Mr Jejeloye said.

The statement was signed by Gbadeyan Abdbulraheem, the agency’s spokesperson.

(NAN)