How Protesters of fix Badagry road were arrested in Badagry, released in Panti

Aliu Akeem

On Thursday October 1st,  Youths in Badagry, decide to carry out a peaceful protest against the deadly, abandoned  road, leading from Mile 2 to the historical city. 

The youth have gathered at strategic bustops: Mowo, Aradagun and others, in the move for the emancipation of their land, when the Nigeria Police Officers, Badagry Division intercepted them at Aradagun and arraigned two of their leaders: Mark Akande and Kareem Olaguro. 

Sharply, they were taken to the police station in Badagry. The arrest actually disrupts the move, as everyone goes dispersed, while some were at the station to know the state of affairs of their comrades. All efforts to get them released on the day, proved futile as the D.P.O insists it was an order from the Commissioner of Police in Lagos. As a result of this, they passed the night at the station. 

Early on Saturday, the youth had expected a more welcoming gesture from the constables. Mr Ovi Kuponu had gone to see his colleagues and he was also arrested. They became three. Without much delay, the youth could only watch as their leaders are being taken away in the police van . To where? Nobody knows. But there were insinuations they will be taken to Ikeja. After long hours, of their expectations of their arrival there, it was learnt that the journey was changed from Ikeja to Panti. 

Lagosians know what Panti means. The youth became unrest, calling, contacting and connecting for the release of their leaders. And it eventually paid off.

It was gathered that interventions from high profile legal practioners in the state and sons of Badagry home and away, all joined the race to ensure the freedom of the "not criminals". The list of influence stretched down to include Nigeria's ace activist  -Femi Falana to secure the freedom for the Youth. And they were released at night. 

The news of their release gladdens the entire Badagry society. And the youth have become more dogged in pursuing their goals for the betterment of their society. 

But the Badagry road is really calling for attention. Despite being the only road leading from Mile 2- to Badagry, it also connects the region with other ECOWAS states. The adverse effects of the roads are seen in the way investors, tourists, business men flee the region. It has really crippled economic activities in the area and responsible for the lost of lives in accident most often. 

Commuters told The Social Watch, that anytime it rains, the 2hrs journey usually turns 6hrs. As gridlocks, waters take over everywhere, causing huge delays. 

Drivers also laments hardship faced on the road from the constables who extorts them , despite the road nature. They cried out for help to the government and the Inspector General of Police.