The Ejigbo Local Council Development Area (LCDA) in Lagos State has distanced itself from a viral video showing refuse accumulation around Ikotun Market and the Ejigbo Road axis. According to the council, the market falls outside its jurisdiction. A statement by the council's Secretary, Oluwayemisi Otuyemi, said references in the video could create a wrong impression about the location and responsibility of the areas shown.
Otuyemi clarified that Ikotun Market is located within the Igando-Ikotun area and is under the Alimosho/Igando-Ikotun jurisdiction, not Ejigbo LCDA. She noted that recent enforcement activities by the Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) around the market and Ikotun-Igando axis also confirmed the area's jurisdiction. The council emphasized that just because the Ikotun-Ejigbo corridor connects both communities, it does not mean every location along the route belongs to Ejigbo LCDA.
Establishing the correct jurisdiction is crucial for accountability and effective governance, particularly when addressing environmental challenges. The council acknowledged concerns over environmental sanitation and stated that it has continued to intervene in areas within its jurisdiction since the commencement of the current administration. This includes procuring a large-capacity compactor within its first six months in office to strengthen waste evacuation and sanitation operations.
The council expressed its commitment to maintaining a clean environment and urged residents, traders, businesses, landlords, market associations, and waste-management operators to cooperate. Otuyemi emphasized that the council would not tolerate indiscriminate dumping of refuse. She called on the public and media to ensure that locations and authorities responsible for environmental problems are properly established when reporting.
The Ejigbo LCDA assured that it would continue to work with relevant state agencies and stakeholders to protect public spaces, improve sanitation, and maintain a cleaner and healthier environment. The council's efforts aim to address environmental challenges within its jurisdiction. Residents and stakeholders are expected to play a role in maintaining cleanliness and reporting environmental issues accurately.
The viral video had sparked concerns about environmental sanitation in the area, with many calling for urgent action to address the refuse accumulation. The Ejigbo LCDA's denial of responsibility for the Ikotun Market area has highlighted the need for clear communication and collaboration between local councils and stakeholders to address environmental challenges effectively.
The council's proactive measures, including the procurement of a large-capacity compactor, demonstrate its commitment to improving waste management and environmental sanitation within its jurisdiction. By working with state agencies and stakeholders, the Ejigbo LCDA aims to create a cleaner and healthier environment for residents.
Key points
- Ejigbo LCDA denies responsibility for refuse accumulation around Ikotun Market due to jurisdictional issues.
