Authorities in Lagos have arrested seven suspects for the illegal disposal of waste on road medians and other unauthorized locations. The arrests were made at Agege Motor Road in Mushin, Bariga, and Ikorodu. The suspects, aged between 20 and 26 years, were identified as Ibrahim Alani, 26; Azeez Olawale, 23; Aliyu Musa, 20; Segun Sunday, 25; Mustapha Muazu, 20; Ismael Lawal, 25; and Seun Olawale, 25.
The Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, confirmed the arrests in an X post on Friday. He stated that the suspects will be prosecuted in court in accordance with the relevant laws of Lagos State. This move is part of a sustained enforcement drive by the Lagos State Government against indiscriminate dumping of refuse on roads, medians, drains, and other public spaces.
The state government has repeatedly linked the practice of illegal waste dumping to blocked drainage channels, flash flooding, traffic obstruction, and public health risks. Commissioner Wahab has consistently warned that dumping household waste on medians is unacceptable, urging residents to patronize their assigned Private Sector Participation (PSP) operators or notify the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) where collection services are unavailable.
In March, Commissioner Wahab disclosed that no fewer than 4,000 persons arrested for dumping refuse on roadsides, drainage channels, medians, and other unauthorized locations in the previous 12 months had been prosecuted. This indicates a continued effort by the government to curb the practice and enforce relevant laws.
The Lagos State Government announced in June 2025 that illegal dumping of refuse or littering would attract a N250,000 fine or up to three months' jail term. Commissioner Wahab noted that individuals who dispose of refuse in drains, road medians, and open spaces directly contribute to Lagos' persistent flooding challenges.
The latest arrests and prosecution efforts demonstrate the government's commitment to maintaining a clean and safe environment in Lagos. Residents are encouraged to cooperate with the authorities and report any instances of illegal waste dumping. The government has also urged residents to take responsibility for their waste and dispose of it properly.
The enforcement drive is expected to continue, with the government working to address the root causes of illegal waste dumping and promote a culture of environmental responsibility among residents. The prosecution of the seven suspects serves as a deterrent to others who may be tempted to engage in similar practices.
Key points
- Seven suspects aged 20-26 arrested in Lagos for illegal waste dumping
- Arrests part of sustained enforcement drive against indiscriminate dumping of refuse
- Illegal dumping of refuse can attract a N250,000 fine or up to three months' jail term in Lagos State
