Lagos touts warning issued by the government urges residents, influencers, and celebrities to stop giving money to miscreants who worsen insecurity

Lagos touts warning took center stage this week as the state government cautioned celebrities, influencers, and well-meaning residents against handing out money to street miscreants, saying it fuels insecurity and environmental disorder.

Also read: Lagos Resumes Ogudu–Ifako Bridge Repairs, Announces Diversions

In a post shared via X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, said that such gestures—often viewed as acts of kindness—only embolden touts and make enforcement harder for state authorities.

“Each time you hand them cash, you are not solving their problem; you are encouraging them to stay on the streets, emboldening them to multiply, and reinforcing a cycle of lawlessness,” Wahab stated.

Wahab noted that what appears to be compassion can ultimately escalate the situation.

“What may seem like an act of kindness only makes enforcement more difficult and creates bigger security and environmental concerns for all of us,” he added.

His remarks followed a social media complaint from Olukayode Ajenifuja, who raised alarm over growing harassment along the Lekki–Epe Expressway.

The issue gained traction after a viral video showed street touts and content creators chasing a convoy allegedly carrying Afrobeats star Burna Boy.

Some attempted to record videos and solicit money, but they were kept at bay by his security team.

Residents say such incidents are no longer isolated but daily realities on Lagos roads.

“They are all a menace to us all,” Ajenifuja wrote, urging the state to deploy the Lagos State Neighbourhood Watch to protect motorists from harassment and extortion.

Wahab emphasized the need for community support to combat the issue, noting that public indulgence enables the persistence of street miscreants.

Also read: Lagos Resumes Ogudu–Ifako Bridge Repairs, Announces Diversions

“The government is committed to resolving the menace, but we can’t do it alone. Residents must stop encouraging them,” he said.