In a significant move to uphold environmental standards, the Lagos State Government has apprehended approximately 30 individuals for various environmental offences. These offenders were found guilty of improper waste disposal and showing a blatant disregard for the state’s environmental laws. They are now awaiting arraignment before a magistrate’s court, scheduled for Monday.
This enforcement action aligns with the zero-tolerance policy championed by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration. The task force responsible for this operation comprises a joint effort between the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) and the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC), commonly known as KAI.
The offenders were caught at various locations within the state, where their actions posed a threat to the environment and undermined the government’s commitment to maintaining cleanliness in the city.
After the arrests, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, addressed the media. He emphasised that the state government would no longer tolerate indiscriminate waste disposal and that the era of individuals clandestinely disposing of waste in unauthorised areas was over. This crackdown, he noted, should serve as a stern warning to others.
Wahab further stressed the importance of residents acquiring waste bins and taking responsibility for keeping their surroundings clean. In the weeks to come, the government plans to intensify enforcement efforts, not only on individuals but also on homes and businesses.
He reminded residents of their legal obligations to ensure a sustainable environment. These include purchasing covered waste bins, avoiding careless waste disposal, and actively engaging with assigned Private Sector Participants (PSP) for waste management services.
Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, the Managing Director/CEO of LAWMA, also encouraged households to adopt the practice of segregating recyclable and non-recyclable waste at the source and using the recommended waste bins. This approach would significantly reduce indiscriminate waste dumping, which mars the cityscape.
Gbadegesin emphasised that maintaining a clean environment is a collective responsibility and called upon individuals, households, and business owners in Lagos to refrain from indiscriminate waste disposal. Violators of the state’s environmental laws would face severe legal consequences.
The state government is committed to ensuring that the Lagos metropolis remains a clean, orderly, and environmentally sustainable place. It encourages the public to support these efforts for the benefit of all. For any waste management-related concerns, residents can reach out to LAWMA through their toll-free numbers: 07080601020 and 617.
