Sanwo-Olu directs police team to protect BRT, Lagos transport assets

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has approved a dedicated security team to monitor the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) and protect state transport assets.

Lagos Metropolis Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) Public Relations Officer, Kolawole Ojelabi announced the approval in a statement on Monday.

Ojelabi lamented the destruction of infrastructure and the violation of BRT lanes which impedes operation.

The team, headed by a Superintendent of Police, comprises 70 police officers that will guard LAMATA facilities and others under construction.

They are to ensure the lifespan of the infrastructure is not truncated by attacks and make passengers feel secure while using public transport.

“There was the need for a higher measure of security and vigilance especially in the light of last year’s attack on Lagos State Government and LAMATA facilities by hoodlums who hijacked the #EndSARS protest”, Ojelabi said.

On October 21, 2020, the Oyingbo Bus Terminal was vandalized, while 57 new BRT buses were set ablaze.

The Berger Bus Terminal and 23 new buses were also razed on the same day.