The sanctity of school environments, traditionally regarded as havens of learning and discipline, is being challenged by the prevalence of alcohol and gambling in the vicinity of Silver Spring Schools in the Ikotun area of Lagos State.
First-time visitors to the area might struggle to locate the school amidst a cluster of stalls and kiosks built alongside the drainage, near the school fence.
Initially resembling a local market catering to immediate needs, a closer inspection reveals a darker side – a gathering place for gamblers and alcoholics.
Investigations reveal that due to the easy availability of alcoholic drinks in sachets, students from nearby schools congregate at this market, leading to disturbances and fights after indulging in these substances.
Concerns from motorists, residents, and business owners prompted action from the Lagos Waste Management Authority and the state’s Ministry of Environment, leading to the demolition of stalls and kiosks built on the drainage channel beside the school.
The intervention followed a request made by lawyer and development consultant, Mrs Iyabo Awokoya, to the Lagos State Ministry of Education and the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency via her verified X (formerly Twitter) handle.
The Silver Springs Schools, according to the official internet portal for all schools in the state known as ‘Lagos Schools Online,’ was founded in 2001 by its proprietress, Mrs Olaide Fawehinmi.
The school, with approximately 105 students, faced challenges as illegal traders encroached on its premises, turning it into a marketplace.
Awokoya expressed frustration over the school proprietress’ unsuccessful attempts to eject the traders, causing a decline in enrollment. She shared her concerns online, leading to swift action from state officials who evacuated the illegal stalls.
State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, directed the removal of the stalls, emphasizing the need for the school principal to reclaim the setback and beautify it in line with the ‘Greener Lagos’ policy.
Residents, relieved by the removal of the stalls, acknowledged the positive impact but questioned the need for such enforcement if strict measures had been in place earlier.
The encroachment issue is not unique to Silver Spring Schools, as other secondary schools in Ikotun face similar challenges.
Traders hawking alcoholic beverages and operating gambling booths have taken over setbacks, impacting students’ focus and contributing to substance abuse.
A teacher, Mrs Bukola Adelani, expressed concern about the negative effects of alcohol and cigarette vendors near schools, stating that such activities could lead to misbehavior, violence, and substance abuse among students.
Government officials have urged collaboration to address issues of noise pollution, flooding, and obstruction caused by traders around schools.
An environmental researcher, Seun Awoyinfa, emphasized the importance of implementing Environmental Impact Assessments to ensure proper planning and prevent the abuse of school setbacks.
The intervention at Silver Spring Schools serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges schools face in maintaining a conducive learning environment amid external vices.
