Lagos, the bustling metropolis in Nigeria, is a city grappling with a persistent menace: street urchins, commonly referred to as “Area Boys.” These individuals, often young men, roam the streets, disrupting the lives of residents and wreaking havoc on the city’s socioeconomic fabric. With a staggering population of over 20 million residents, Lagos is bursting at the seams, struggling to accommodate the needs and aspirations of its inhabitants. However, the presence of street urchins exacerbates the challenges faced by the city, posing a significant threat to the well-being and safety of its residents.
The activities of street urchins have cast a dark cloud over various neighbourhoods in Lagos, creating an atmosphere of fear and insecurity. Innocent citizens find themselves at the mercy of these unruly groups as they move from street to street, attacking individuals, vandalizing property, and disrupting daily life. Tales of their audacious behaviour have become distressingly common, leaving residents on edge and constantly apprehensive for their safety.
The impact of street urchins extends beyond individual encounters and personal safety concerns. Their activities have severe consequences for the socio-economic life of Lagos. Businesses suffer as customers avoid areas known to be infested with these lawless individuals. Locals and visitors alike are hesitant to venture out at night, limiting economic activity and hindering the city’s potential for growth.
In the face of these challenges, residents have voiced their concerns and called upon the Nigeria Police to increase surveillance in affected areas. However, the response has been inadequate, with law enforcement often arriving only after the damage has been done. The lack of arrests and the perception of police complicity in these matters have eroded public trust and further emboldened the street urchins to continue their disruptive activities.
Furthermore, Lagos grapples with another concerning issue: open defecation. The prevalence of this unsanitary practice contributes to the spread of diseases like cholera, further burdening the already strained healthcare system. The absence of proper toilet facilities in public spaces and residential areas creates a breeding ground for infections and compromises the well-being of residents.
To address these pressing concerns, concerted efforts are required from all stakeholders. The Lagos State government has initiated measures, including the establishment of a special task force to combat open defecation and address the problem of street urchins. However, a collective commitment from government authorities, law enforcement agencies, and residents themselves is crucial to achieving lasting solutions.
The Disturbing Reality: Stories of Harassment and Criminal Activities
To truly understand the impact of street urchins in Lagos, one must listen to the harrowing stories recounted by those who have encountered them firsthand. These accounts paint a vivid picture of the fear and insecurity that permeate the lives of residents, particularly women and late-night workers who bear the brunt of these encounters.
One woman, who wished to remain anonymous, shared her traumatic experience that unfolded on a Thursday evening in July 2021. After leaving her office in Ikeja, she found herself stuck in traffic, unable to reach her home in Itire, a community in Surulere Local Government Area. As the hours ticked by, her parents grew increasingly concerned for her safety and urged her to seek refuge in a nearby hotel. The exorbitant cost she was about to pay for a night’s stay was a testament to the desperation she felt. Fortunately, her father intervened, instructing her to take an Uber to a family friend’s house in Ojuelegba. Her parents’ constant worry and the trauma she experiences on a daily basis highlight the dire circumstances faced by many Lagosians.
Another resident lamented the deteriorating situation in Itire, where street urchins operate with impunity. These hoodlums move from street to street, instilling fear and wreaking havoc. They brazenly attack innocent people, using sharp objects to vandalise vehicles, tear clothing, and rob unsuspecting victims of their valuables. The absence of any challenge to their actions emboldens them, creating an atmosphere where they appear to be beyond the reach of the law.
The streets of Itire, like many other areas in Lagos, have become hotspots for criminal activities, especially during clashes between rival cult groups. One resident expressed disbelief that such acts of violence could occur just two streets away from a police station. These incidents not only disrupt the peace but also erode trust in law enforcement, as residents witness the lack of timely intervention and arrests despite their numerous complaints.
These stories are not isolated incidents. They reflect a recurring pattern of harassment, intimidation, and violence perpetrated by street urchins in Lagos. Commuters stranded on the roads due to vehicle breakdowns often find themselves surrounded by these groups, demanding money for “securing” the area or, in the case of private car owners, their vehicles. It does not matter that these hapless persons would still have to find a way of leaving the area, with or without their property. Failure to comply with their demands can result in verbal abuse, physical assault, or the theft of personal belongings. It is a disheartening reality that individuals must guard their possessions and maintain constant vigilance to navigate the city’s streets safely.
The impact of street urchins extends beyond the immediate harm caused to individuals. The pervasive fear and insecurity they sow have far-reaching consequences for the overall well-being of Lagos. Business owners and customers hesitate to operate in areas plagued by these unruly groups, resulting in economic stagnation and hindrance to the city’s development.
These distressing stories highlight the urgent need for concrete actions to address the issue of street urchins in Lagos.
The Pervasive Nature of the Problem
The issue of street urchins, or “Area Boys,” in Lagos is not confined to specific areas; rather, it permeates the entire city. These individuals can be found in major markets, bus stops, and public spaces, leaving no corner untouched by their presence. Their activities cast a shadow over the vibrancy of Lagos, hindering both residents and visitors from fully enjoying the city’s offerings.
In bustling markets like Idumota, Ereko, and Apongbon, street urchins assert their authority, demanding money from traders and shoppers alike. Their brazen tactics create an atmosphere of unease and intimidation, deterring potential customers from engaging in commercial transactions. The pervasive nature of their activities contributes to a sense of lawlessness, undermining the smooth functioning of these vital economic hubs.
Bus stops, often bustling with activity, also fall victim to the influence of street urchins. These individuals seize opportunities to harass commuters, demanding money in exchange for allowing them to board public transportation. Passengers, already burdened with the challenges of daily commuting, find themselves subjected to further financial strain and unwarranted intimidation. The presence of street urchins at these transportation hubs not only disrupts the flow of movement but also tarnishes the reputation of Lagos as a city committed to efficient public transportation.
The impact of street urchins extends beyond specific locations or sectors. Their presence in public spaces affects the overall perception of safety and security within the city. Visitors and tourists, hoping to explore the cultural richness of Lagos, may feel deterred by the presence of these unruly groups. The reputation of Lagos as a vibrant and welcoming destination for commerce and tourism is at stake, as the activities of street urchins cast a shadow on the city’s image.
Furthermore, the influence of street urchins can have a detrimental effect on commercial activities. Small businesses, already facing numerous challenges, find it difficult to thrive in an environment where their operations are constantly disrupted by extortion and intimidation. The pervasive presence of street urchins hampers the growth of local enterprises and undermines the entrepreneurial spirit that is essential for economic development.
Open Defecation as a Health and Environmental Concern
The problem of open defecation in Lagos is closely tied to the issue of street urchins. The lack of proper toilet facilities in public spaces and residential areas not only contributes to unsanitary conditions but also creates an environment that fosters the presence of street urchins.
Open defecation, with its visible consequences of faeces on streets and in public areas, attracts street urchins who often engage in disruptive and criminal activities. These individuals take advantage of the unsanitary conditions created by open defecation, using them as an opportunity to harass and extort money from passersby. The absence of accessible and clean toilets forces residents and commuters to resort to open defecation, inadvertently perpetuating the cycle that street urchins thrive upon.
Furthermore, street urchins exacerbate the problem of open defecation by obstructing efforts to provide proper sanitation facilities. Their disruptive activities in markets, bus stops, and public spaces hinder the establishment of functional toilets and the maintenance of hygiene standards. The presence of street urchins in areas where open defecation is prevalent further deters the implementation of effective solutions to address this issue.
The intertwined nature of open defecation and the activities of street urchins necessitates a comprehensive approach to tackle both problems simultaneously. Efforts to combat open defecation should go hand in hand with strategies to address the underlying issues that contribute to the presence of street urchins. By improving sanitation infrastructure, providing accessible and clean toilets, and implementing effective law enforcement measures to deter street urchins, Lagos can break the cycle and create a healthier and safer environment for all residents.
Dealing with the matter
Lagosians hold the key to addressing the pressing issues of street urchins and open defecation in their beloved city. Through a collective effort with the government, they can create a transformative impact and pave the way for a safer and healthier Lagos.
The government plays a vital role in initiating and implementing effective measures. Strengthening law enforcement is paramount. Increased surveillance and patrols in areas plagued by street urchins will ensure timely intervention and arrests, sending a clear message that their criminal activities will not be tolerated. Specialised task forces dedicated to tackling these problems can be established or existing ones made to work in collaboration with relevant agencies to devise comprehensive strategies and execute targeted actions.
Improving sanitation infrastructure is crucial in combating open defecation. The government should invest in the development and maintenance of proper toilet facilities across the city, from bustling markets to public transportation hubs. Ensuring regular water supply and sanitation services will provide essential resources for maintaining hygiene and curbing the spread of diseases.
Enforcing regulations is another pivotal step. Building owners must be held accountable for providing functional toilet facilities and upholding proper hygiene standards. Sanctions should be imposed on those who fail to comply, sending a clear message that proper sanitation is not negotiable.
Public awareness campaigns are instrumental in driving behavioural change. Comprehensive initiatives must be launched to educate and empower Lagosians. Through these campaigns, individuals will gain a deeper understanding of the health hazards associated with open defecation and the importance of adopting good sanitation practices. By fostering a sense of responsibility and ownership, these efforts can promote a culture of cleanliness and hygiene throughout the city.
Active participation from Lagosians is vital to complement government initiatives. Supporting the government by reporting incidents, providing information, and cooperating with law enforcement agencies will create a safer environment for all. Communities can take the lead by organizing awareness programs, workshops, and sensitization sessions. By fostering a shared understanding of the consequences of street urchins and open defecation, residents can collectively work towards building safer neighbourhoods and public spaces.
The private sector also has a significant role to play. Businesses and organizations can contribute to the cause by funding sanitation projects, providing resources, or participating in public-private partnerships. Their support can bolster the efforts of the government and amplify the impact of initiatives aimed at addressing these challenges.
Ultimately, it is through the combined efforts of Lagosians and the government that lasting change will be achieved. By embracing a shared vision for a safer and healthier Lagos, residents can take ownership of their city’s destiny. Together, they can create an environment where street urchins no longer pose a threat and open defecation becomes a relic of the past. Through unity, determination, and sustained action, Lagosians can transform their city into a shining example of progress, resilience, and communal well-being.
