Lagos begins enforcement against poorly maintained telecom cables in four locations

The Lagos State Government began enforcement operations on Monday, November 9, against internet service providers (ISPs) that fail to properly maintain telecommunications cables. The Lagos State Infrastructure Maintenance and Regulatory Agency (LASIMRA) had earlier issued a notice telling operators to clean up their installations and remove safety hazards; facilities that have not complied now face enforcement action.

Four locations covered

The exercise covers four locations: Ilasan and Ikate in Lekki, Allen Avenue in Ikeja, and the Customs Office area off Toyin Street, also in Ikeja. The authorities stressed that the operation targets cable installations in and around those locations, not a blanket removal of every telecommunications installation across the state.

Warning first, enforcement now

The directive, signed by LASIMRA General Manager Prince Oyekanmi Elegushi and dated November 2, instructed ISPs operating in the affected areas to properly arrange, secure and maintain their telecommunications cables and remove obstructions and environmental hazards. The Guardian and ITWeb Africa independently reported the affected locations and the enforcement date.

Lagos, Nigeria's largest city, has long struggled with tangled overhead cables: sagging or loose lines are not only an eyesore but can snap and fall in wind and rain, endangering pedestrians and vehicles. The authorities say the clean-up is meant to make the streets safer and tidier.