A civil society organization, Campaign for Dignity in Governance, has praised the Lagos State Government for promptly repairing an open manhole along the Ikeja axis less than 24 hours after a citizen raised the alarm in a viral video.
The intervention was prompted by broadcast journalist Deji Badmus, who set up a warning billboard over the open manhole last Saturday to draw attention to the danger.
Olufemi Daramola, the Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Infrastructure, confirmed on Sunday that relevant agencies were mobilized overnight to address the safety hazard.
Reacting to the swift action, Comrade Razaq Olokooba, the Convener of the group on Monday in Lagos, commended the Sanwo-Olu-led administration for its prompt response to citizen concerns and for its mature handling of the issue regarding the manhole.
The organization characterized Governor Sanwo-Olu as a listening leader with exceptional qualities that other leaders and aspiring politicians should emulate. They noted that his developmental efforts in the state are commendable, and his ability to respond quickly to citizens’ concerns is admirable.
The group expressed full support for the Lagos State Government, emphasizing that it acts in the best interest of the populace and is committed to delivering good governance. They encouraged the youth to emulate Governor Sanwo-Olu’s leadership qualities and cautioned against the dangers of vandalizing public infrastructure, such as manhole covers.
“First, we must commend Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his dedicated team for swiftly responding to the concerns raised by a responsible citizen regarding the manhole in the Ikeja area.
“While we applaud Deji Badmus’s civic action in highlighting this public danger, it is heartening to see the state respond so quickly once the issue was brought to their attention.
“We commend the Lagos State Public Works Corporation, the drainage team, and the General Manager for their tireless efforts to ensure the manhole was repaired promptly.
“It is also important to remind residents of the consequences of road vandalism and the misuse of public infrastructure. These manholes are usually covered when constructed, but may later be vandalized by individuals with malicious intent. Therefore, we urge the Lagos government to hold those responsible for such acts accountable.
“We will continue to support Governor Sanwo-Olu’s administration as he has assured us of his commitment to respond promptly to the concerns of the people.
“Additionally, politicians and other governors should learn from Governor Sanwo-Olu’s approach to this issue. Unlike others, he did not suggest that the call for repairs was politically motivated; he simply addressed the problem, serving as a lesson for others.
“Sanwo-Olu stands as a mentor to young people, and his developmental strides in the state resonate with every resident and visitor in Lagos,” Olokooba stated.
