Solar-Powered Streetlights Targeted in Widespread Vandalism
A shocking incident has been reported along the Longbridge section of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, where 168 solar-powered streetlights have been stolen by suspected vandals. These lights, installed in 2025, were intended to provide illumination and improve safety for motorists traveling through this busy stretch of road.
The streetlights were placed along a five-kilometre-long bridge, which serves as a critical link between Lagos and other parts of the country. The installation was expected to enhance visibility, especially at night, and reduce incidents of criminal activity on the bridge. However, it appears that these efforts have been undermined by a series of thefts that have left large sections of the bridge in darkness.
During a recent visit to the bridge, it was observed that the lights had been gradually disappearing over time. A count of the affected areas revealed that approximately 168 solar-powered streetlights had been removed. The vandals appeared to have taken great care in dismantling the lights, loosening screws and nuts before removing the poles and transporting them away.
Some sections of the bridge showed signs of forced removal, while others had lights taken at intervals, with some stretches affected over 300 metres. This suggests a coordinated effort by those responsible for the theft.
The Longbridge is known for its heavy traffic and frequent incidents of crime. It has become a hotspot for attacks on motorists whose vehicles break down, particularly at night. The installation of the streetlights was meant to address these concerns, but their disappearance has raised alarm among local residents and business owners.
Motorists and business owners expressed concern about the return of darkness to the area. Segun, a motorist who spoke on condition of anonymity, described the theft as “very sad” and noted that it was carried out systematically. He emphasized that the removal of the lights has made driving at night more dangerous, as it is harder to see what lies ahead or identify people on the roadside.
Dade Aina, a business owner at Wawa, lamented the removal of a streetlight near an underpass. She pointed out that the area has become dark since the light was taken, increasing the vulnerability of drivers who may break down at night. She warned that without proper lighting, criminals could operate more freely, making the area even more dangerous.
Another business owner, Labake Aliu, suggested that the thefts likely occur at night, as most shops close by 7pm, and the only way to learn about the latest removals is through reports from drivers arriving from the Longbridge direction. This lack of awareness makes it difficult to track the extent of the vandalism.
Despite the presence of police officers at a makeshift post along the bridge, the thefts continue to occur. An anonymous motorist expressed concern that the continued removal of the lights increases the risk of accidents and criminal attacks. He urged authorities to take swift action to stop the thefts and restore the streetlights.
Local residents and business owners are calling for increased surveillance around the bridge and the prompt replacement of the stolen streetlights. They also urge authorities to intensify efforts to curb the activities of scavengers and vandals targeting public infrastructure.
Response from Authorities
When contacted, the Federal Controller of Works in Ogun State, Richard Adeleye, confirmed the theft and stated that some vandals had been arrested and charged to court. He mentioned that efforts are ongoing to prevent further incidents, emphasizing that strategies are being put in place to stop the theft.
Similarly, the Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer, Oluseyi Babaseyi, confirmed that suspected vandals operating along the expressway had been arrested. He reiterated the police’s commitment to protecting critical infrastructure and urged residents to report any suspicious activities.
The situation has drawn attention to the broader issue of vandalism targeting public infrastructure. Recently, unidentified scavengers allegedly vandalized the pillars supporting the bridge linking Alakija and FESTAC in Lagos State, breaking concrete structures to remove embedded iron rods.
The spokesperson for the State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency, Babatunde Aina, highlighted that efforts are ongoing to sensitize the public about the dangers of vandalism and to apprehend those responsible. He stressed the importance of community involvement in reporting such acts and ensuring that perpetrators face the full weight of the law.
