The Lagos State Government has taken decisive action to address waste disposal violations by shutting down the Ogba City Mall in Ikeja and the Ajah market in Etti-Osa. This move is part of a broader effort to ensure responsible waste management and maintain a clean environment in the state.
The closure of these facilities was executed by a joint enforcement team comprising the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), the State Task Force on Environmental Sanitation and Special Offences (LASTMA), and the Lagos Government Special Environmental Corps (KAI). Their concerted effort aims to curb the sundry waste disposal offences that have persisted.
According to a statement from Mrs. Folashade Kadiri, the Director of Public Affairs at LAWMA, this enforcement action also involved the clearance of shanties and the removal of illegal trader structures around the Ajah BRT corridor and the Ajah Jubilee Bridge.
Commenting on this initiative, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, highlighted the government’s commitment to addressing the issue of indiscriminate waste disposal by markets and business facilities across the state. He stated, “We are stepping up action on this administration’s zero tolerance for filth and reckless waste disposal by traders and business facilities.”
Wahab emphasised that business owners had been warned repeatedly and should have expected this action if they failed to adhere to proper waste disposal practices. He reiterated that the Sanwo-Olu-led administration would continue to pursue its objective of maintaining a clean environment for the greater public good.
Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, the Managing Director and CEO of LAWMA, affirmed that the zero-tolerance campaign was an ongoing effort. He encouraged markets and business stakeholders to take proactive measures to ensure clean and hygienic premises. Gbadegesin stressed the need for responsible waste disposal and stated, “For the umpteenth time, we are encouraging all business owners and markets to shun filth and put measures in place to guarantee responsible waste disposal in their places of operation.”
Gbadegesin further cautioned that enforcement actions would be taken against those who fail to comply with the regulations and urged defaulters to adhere to the rules. This initiative underscores the Lagos State Government’s commitment to maintaining a clean and hygienic environment for its residents.
