The Lagos Waste Management Authority, LAWMA, has conducted an enforcement exercise in Okota, Lagos, shutting down over 25 buildings, including a Mobil filling station, along Ago Palace Way. The operation, led by LAWMA Managing Director Muyiwa Gbadegesin, targeted environmental offences, including indiscriminate waste disposal and illegal street trading. The exercise aimed to address persistent concerns over waste management in the area.
The enforcement exercise, which took place on Sunday, deployed various equipment, including compactor trucks, a payloader, tipper trucks, and street sweepers, to clear affected areas. LAWMA officials also arrested several cart pushers, including one identified as Shamusi Muritala, who allegedly admitted to dumping refuse on road medians and collecting N5,000 from customers for the service. Muritala reportedly appealed for leniency when questioned by officials.
According to LAWMA, some of the sealed properties had illegal stalls on road setbacks or housed street traders whose activities contributed to littering and improper waste disposal. The authority said it would continue to enforce regulations against illegal street trading and take action against individuals who patronised traders operating in prohibited areas. Gbadegesin warned that such activities impeded movement, disrupted public order, and worsened environmental degradation.
The exercise also included public enlightenment campaigns for residents and traders on appropriate waste disposal practices. LAWMA urged them to dispose of their refuse through approved waste collection services. The authority emphasized the importance of proper waste management in maintaining a clean and healthy environment.
The Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences Unit, popularly known as the Taskforce, and the Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI) team provided support during the operation. Their involvement helped to ensure a successful exercise and demonstrated the government's commitment to addressing environmental challenges in the state.
LAWMA's efforts to enforce environmental regulations and promote proper waste management practices have been ongoing. The authority has been working to address the issue of indiscriminate waste disposal in Lagos, which has become a major concern for residents and the government. The recent exercise is part of a broader strategy to tackle environmental offences and promote a cleaner, healthier environment.
The enforcement exercise serves as a reminder to residents and traders of the importance of adhering to environmental regulations. LAWMA's actions demonstrate the government's commitment to enforcing laws and regulations aimed at protecting the environment and promoting public health. The authority's efforts are expected to have a positive impact on the environment and the well-being of Lagos residents.
Key points
- LAWMA seals 25 buildings, including a Mobil filling station, over environmental offences in Lagos.
- The enforcement exercise aimed to address indiscriminate waste disposal and illegal street trading.
- LAWMA urges residents and traders to dispose of their refuse through approved waste collection services.
