Homelessness is a pervasive issue in Lagos, as exemplified by Liya’u Sa’adu, who has made Obalende Bridge his home for the past 30 years. Advising and guiding other homeless individuals who seek refuge under the bridge, Sa’adu has become a pillar of support in this close-knit community.
Struggling with economic hardships, residents like Sa’adu scavenge for scrap metal to make a living. Limited opportunities and rising poverty rates force many to abandon traditional livelihoods and seek alternative means of survival.
Facing occasional raids by the Lagos state environmental task force, residents risk fines or arrest for living under the bridge illegally. The lack of government-provided shelters leaves many vulnerable individuals with limited options for safe housing.
In a city where the cost of living continues to rise, individuals like Sa’adu find themselves resigned to the harsh realities of homelessness. Despite the challenges, their resilience shines through as they navigate life under the bridge, forging a sense of community amidst adversity.
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