The Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC) has rescued several young nursing mothers and their babies who were discovered living in unsafe and unhygienic conditions at illegal dumpsites and makeshift shelters along the Lagos-Badagry Expressway.
The discovery was made during an ongoing inter-agency cleanup operation aimed at clearing illegal structures, environmental infractions and other obstructions along the busy corridor.
According to LAGESC Corps Marshal, Major Olaniyi Cole (retd.), officials were shocked to find young mothers and their children living in conditions considered dangerous to their health and wellbeing.
He explained that the cleanup exercise had been ongoing for several weeks and had recorded significant progress before officials came across the women living within the affected shanties and dumpsites.
The agency immediately moved to rescue them and ensure they received appropriate medical attention.
Cole said the intervention became particularly urgent after officials observed the condition of a newborn baby found at the location.
The women and their children were reportedly exposed to severe environmental hazards, including poor sanitation, contaminated surroundings, unhealthy air and inadequate access to food.
Those rescued include 23-year-old Fareedat Muyideen from Kwara State and her two-year-old child; 25-year-old Ayomide Ayomoke from Ondo State and her 10-month-old baby; 20-year-old Amanda Oziema Abalihi from Anambra State and her nine-day-old baby; and 24-year-old Chisom Ugo from Imo State and her 11-month-old child.
The Corps Marshal appealed to relatives who may have been searching for the women to come forward.
He added that the mothers and their babies were currently receiving medical care and would only be discharged after health professionals confirmed that they were medically fit.
LAGESC is also working with relevant welfare and government agencies to support the rehabilitation and eventual reintegration of the women into society.
Cole further urged parents and guardians to pay closer attention to the welfare of their children, revealing that some young people encountered on the streets claimed they had left their homes because of alleged maltreatment.
He reiterated the Lagos State Government’s commitment to protecting children and vulnerable residents from abuse, neglect and exploitation.
The Corps Marshal also warned that parents or guardians found responsible for serious neglect or abuse could face legal action.
The rescue has once again highlighted concerns surrounding homelessness, child welfare and the living conditions of vulnerable families in parts of Lagos State.
