With the recent arrival of the Palms Mall in Lekki, which is fantastic by the way, am getting the feeling that Lagos is gradually being split into two very different cities. Yes, that gap already exists. I mean imagine comparing Ikoyi and Agege. But my fear is that this gap is going to be further entrenched and relatively nice places like Surulere, and if care is not taken Ikeja, will be pushed lower down the pecking order. In 5 years time, we could have a wonderful modern centre encircled by crappy, decaying suburbs.
And i believe there is an instutionalised decision to make this so. The majority of the suggested improvements to the infrastructure of Lagos State is centered on Lekki-Ikoyi-VI-Lagos Island axis. When its all done or sorry if it is done at all (weve been here before), we could have a psuedo-developed world where its inhabitants shop at Shoprite and Game, sip cappacinos and lattes at trendy cafes, down shots of tequila in classy bars, struggle to choose which cinema to watch "King Kong II", while cruising on well illuminated and pot hole free roads. And the rest of us. Well thank God for our local Mr Biggs and Tantalizers.
Now dont get me wrong. Am not a communist or even socialist for that matter. I love to enjoy the life and will happily jump at the 1st opportunity to live on the island. But youve got to spread the love round. One should not have to drive all the way to the island just to enjoy the "flenjo life". This narrow minded view of development needs to change. It will only increase the already manic rush to live on the island which will wreack havoc on the "to-be" developed infrastructure. And we will back at square one again wondering how we got there.
Anyhow, i would like to think this is being done in phases and this is just phase one (dont hold your breath). In the mean time. Have to keep hunting for a bargain. This island life sounds appealing..........
Later
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2 comments:
GarageBoy...its not really a tale of 2 cities.Its a tale of 1 city--every society that is properly balanced MUST of necessity have the poor [JC in the bible said same--you'll always have the poor amongst you] If in your utopian situation everywhere is well done and streets paved with gold ...where do the less privileged live--next door to you I doubt it...rent will go up and they'll end up under the bridge.Let those of you that can afford it move to island...the rest of us are fine here in Atlanta...sorry I meant Agege.;)
O3
Sorry mate, just have to add my comments to the last guy's view on this topic. My guy i cannot say it better than you did, from my view mate your comments are well put and to quote some famous words: "its just a beautiful nonsense that was unfortunately put down and not in a garbage toxic waste recycle bin". More grease to your elbow son, i say why cant it be like finchley Road eh?
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