There are certain parts of Surulere that are considered for high earners like Bode Thomas, Aguda, Alaka Estate, Masha, Ogunlana Drive, Yaba, etc.
Compared to other areas of Surulere, these areas are much quieter, cleaner, and have a better road system.
However, Shitta, Ojuelegba, Ijesha, Anjorin, Lawanson, and Itire are regarded as Surulere’s ghetto areas. For example, Ojuelegba is one of the busiest areas in Lagos due to the daily influx of people visiting the area.
It is best to stay away from these areas of Surulere because of things like traffic, safety issues, inadequate infrastructure, or generally unpleasant experiences.
Here’s a guide to the 10 best places to avoid in Surulere.
1. Shitta
Why You Should Avoid It:
Shitta is a central Surulere neighborhood that is well-known for its lively energy but is also infamous for its extreme traffic and overcrowding, especially at Shitta Roundabout.
Because cars are frequently caught in heavy traffic for extended periods of time during rush hours, navigating the area can be a nightmare.
Infrastructure Issues: Another downside is the poor drainage system, leading to flooding when it rains. The lack of proper infrastructure, combined with the unorganized nature of the area, makes it uncomfortable for both drivers and pedestrians.
For those seeking a quieter, more peaceful experience, Shitta may not be the best place to visit.
Overcrowding: Shitta is renowned for its dense population and bustling markets, leading to significant pedestrian and vehicular congestion.
Traffic Congestion: The area’s central location makes it a nexus for traffic, especially during peak hours, causing prolonged delays.
Insights:
Navigating through Shitta can be time-consuming due to the crowded streets. For those seeking a more relaxed environment, it might be best to avoid this area during busy periods.
2. Ojuelegba
Why You Should Avoid It:
Ojuelegba is a major hub in Surulere and one of the busiest intersections in Lagos. It is known for being a traffic hotspot, with cars often moving at a snail’s pace during peak hours.
The area can be overwhelming for visitors, as it’s always filled with pedestrians, street vendors, and vehicles.
Safety Concerns: Ojuelegba is also associated with petty crimes, including pickpocketing and other forms of street crime. While it offers plenty of shopping and eating options, it’s essential to stay alert.
The hustle and bustle can sometimes feel chaotic, making it less appealing for those looking for a more relaxed experience.
High Traffic Volume: Ojuelegba serves as a major transportation hub, resulting in constant traffic snarls.
Safety Concerns: The dense crowds and chaotic atmosphere have been linked to instances of petty crime, such as pickpocketing.
Insights:
While Ojuelegba is iconic and offers a glimpse into Lagos’s dynamic life, it’s advisable to remain vigilant and possibly limit visits during peak hours.
3. Ijesha
Why You Should Avoid It:
In Surulere, Ijesha is a heavily populated neighborhood that experiences terrible traffic jams and inadequate infrastructure. The narrow streets can be difficult to navigate, especially during rush hour, and you will almost certainly get stuck in traffic.
Environmental Concerns: The area is also known for being very dirty. With little to no waste management in place, trash can be seen littering the streets, making it unappealing for both locals and visitors.
The lack of proper maintenance, combined with the overwhelming noise pollution, makes Ijesha an area that’s best avoided if you’re looking for a more serene experience.
Poor Infrastructure: Ijesha suffers from inadequate road maintenance, leading to pothole-ridden streets.
Flooding: The area’s drainage system is subpar, causing frequent flooding during the rainy season.
Insights:
Traveling through Ijesha can be challenging, especially during rains. The combination of bad roads and flooding makes it less than ideal for commuters.
4. Anjorin
Why You Should Avoid It:
Anjorin is an area known for its uncontrolled commercial activity and poor infrastructure. The streets are often narrow, making it difficult for vehicles to pass through, especially when there’s traffic.
The lack of proper urban planning and overcrowding have contributed to the general chaos in this part of Surulere.
Environmental Issues: Anjorin also faces challenges with uncollected waste and poor drainage systems. The streets are often flooded during the rainy season, making it dangerous to walk or drive through the area.
The congestion, poor sanitation, and constant noise make it a less-than-ideal place to visit.
Unregulated Commercial Activities: Anjorin’s streets are often clogged with street vendors, leading to congestion. Also, there is Improper waste disposal practices result in unsightly and unsanitary conditions.
Insights:
The lack of organized urban planning in Anjorin can make navigation cumbersome. Visitors might find the environment less appealing due to cleanliness issues.
5. Lawanson
Why You Should Avoid It:
Lawanson is a popular part of Surulere, but it’s plagued with infrastructural challenges. The roads in Lawanson are riddled with potholes and cracks, making it difficult for vehicles to pass smoothly.
The area is often overcrowded, and navigating through its narrow streets can be a frustrating experience.
Safety and Security Issues: Additionally, Lawanson has earned a reputation for being a hotspot for street crimes and hustlers.
While the area offers some businesses and residential options, it’s not the best place to visit if you want to avoid the hassle of traffic jams or worries about safety. It’s always advisable to stay cautious when visiting.
Infrastructural Decay: Lawanson’s roads are dotted with potholes, making driving hazardous.
Insights:
While Lawanson hosts various businesses and residences, it’s prudent to exercise caution, particularly during nighttime.
6. Itire
Why You Should Avoid It:
Itire, while a residential area also suffers from severe overcrowding and poor road conditions. The streets are often flooded when it rains due to the lack of proper drainage systems, making it challenging to move around the area.
The high population density also contributes to a constant state of congestion, which makes Itire unpleasant for both residents and visitors.
Poor Infrastructure: In addition to the flooding issues, Itire faces a lack of proper waste disposal systems, resulting in uncollected trash piling up along the streets. For those looking for a clean, organized space, Itire might not be the best choice.
Sanitation Problems: Inadequate waste management results in littered streets.
Insights:
The bustling nature of Itire, combined with sanitation challenges, can make visits overwhelming for some.
7. Masha-Kilo
Why You Should Avoid It:
Masha-Kilo is a highly industrialized part of Surulere, known for its bad roads and flooding issues. During the rainy season, the area is notorious for being flooded, making it almost impossible to navigate the roads without getting stuck.
The poor drainage system exacerbates this issue, leaving residents and drivers frustrated.
Traffic and Accessibility: In addition to the flooding, the roads are often overcrowded with commercial vehicles, which can make getting through the area time-consuming.
If you’re trying to get to your destination quickly, Masha-Kilo is an area you should avoid, especially during the rainy season.
Flood-Prone Areas: Certain areas in Masha-Kilo are notorious for severe flooding during rains due to poor drainage.
Traffic Delays: Flooding exacerbates traffic congestion, leading to prolonged delays.
Insights:
During the rainy season, it’s advisable to avoid Masha-Kilo due to potential flooding and associated traffic issues.
8. Sanya
Why You Should Avoid It:
The large canal at Sanya Road often overfills and spills onto the streets, thereby causing flooding in the area.
The lack of maintenance of the existing canal sometimes makes the roads impassable, often adding to the already growing frustration of the congested area.
Unkempt Environment: Sanya is plagued by poor waste management, leaving piles of garbage scattered throughout the streets.
These environmental issues, combined with the lack of proper infrastructure, make it an area that’s best avoided for a more comfortable experience.
Waste Management Issues: Accumulated garbage is a common sight, indicating poor waste disposal systems.
Insights:
The combination of bad roads and environmental concerns may make Sanya less appealing to visitors.
9. Tejuosho
Why You Should Avoid It:
While Tejuosho is known for its shopping mall, the surrounding area suffers from heavy traffic and congestion.
The roads are often filled with street vendors and cars, making it difficult to navigate through the area. The lack of proper organization leads to chaotic scenes that can be frustrating for anyone trying to get from one place to another.
Safety Concerns: The area is also prone to petty theft, with pickpockets and other criminals taking advantage of the crowded streets. If you’re not careful, you might find yourself in an uncomfortable situation. For a smoother and safer experience, it’s better to avoid the area if you can.
Market-Induced Congestion: The popular Tejuosho Market attracts large crowds, leading to congestion.
Parking Challenges: Limited parking spaces result in haphazard parking and traffic obstructions.
10. Bode Thomas
Why You Should Avoid It:
Bode Thomas is an area in Surulere known for its constant traffic jams and narrow roads. The area is often congested, with vehicles unable to move smoothly, especially during rush hours.
The traffic can add significant time to your commute, making it a frustrating place to be when you’re in a hurry.
Traffic Bottlenecks: Bode Thomas Street experiences frequent traffic jams due to its commercial significance.
Noise Pollution: The area’s vibrancy comes with elevated noise levels, which might be discomforting to some.
Insights:
Those sensitive to noise or seeking tranquility might find Bode Thomas less accommodating.
Finally
While Surulere boasts numerous attractions and a lively atmosphere, certain areas present challenges that might affect your experience.
At RentHouseSurulere, we aim to provide you with comprehensive insights to navigate the district safely and comfortably.
Through being aware of these locales and their associated issues, you can make informed decisions and enjoy all that Surulere has to offer.
