The Lagos State government, through the Lagos State Safety Commission, has swiftly ordered the immediate closure of the Lekki Conservation Centre.

The directive follows a viral video showcasing the deteriorating condition of the facility, as announced by the Director General/CEO of the safety commission Lanre Mojola.

Mojola highlighted the urgency of the decision, stating, “Following the viral social media post on the State of the facility at the Lekki Conservation Centre, the Lagos State Government through its agency, Lagos State Safety Commission has directed the immediate closure of the facility and ordered immediate and extensive repairs on affected areas.”

The safety commission had initially conveyed this instruction through a Facebook post on Monday.

Mojola, in an Instagram post, revealed that the viral video, recorded in December, triggered a swift response leading to the resolution of the identified issue.

However, he clarified, “The LCC has been closed for extensive maintenance since 16th of January. The Lagos Safety Commission and Lagos Ministry of Tourism will continue to monitor the situation for the safety of everyone.”

In a recent video, a concerned visitor identified as Chude Nnamdi expressed apprehensions about the deteriorating condition of the canopy walk bridge at the center.

He emphasized the precarious state of the structure, urging visitors to exercise caution due to visible damages.

“I have been here many times, and the previous year will be a testimony to that. This is 49ft above the ground, not even the ground, a swamp look at I saw, look at this. I mean if anyone falls from here, God forbid what can happen. This has been there for quite a long time, this is a place known to house crocodile and all sorts,” he had remarked.

Established in 1990, the Lekki Conservation Centre spans 78 hectares (190 acres) and serves as a crucial natural resource conservation area.

Originally conceived as a biodiversity conservation icon, the facility’s current state raises concerns about its ability to fulfill its intended purpose.

The management of LCC indicated plans to reopen on February 1, 2024.