The Lagos State Government has issued a stern warning to residents against indiscriminate waste disposal, stating that offenders will face stiff penalties, including a fine of ₦250,000 or a three-month jail term.
The Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, disclosed this on Tuesday during a press briefing held at the Ministry’s Conference Room in Alausa, Ikeja, to address the state of the environment, preparations for the upcoming Sallah celebrations, and the 2025 World Environment Day.
Flanked by top officials including the Permanent Secretary, Office of Environmental Services, Dr. Gaji Omobolaji; Special Adviser on Environment, Engr. Olakunle Rotimi-Akodu; and the Permanent Secretary, Office of Drainage Services, Engr. Mahamood Adegbite, Wahab declared that the government would no longer tolerate infractions against environmental regulations.
“We will not drop the ball. We would continue to ramp up our enforcement and sensitisation efforts across the state,” Wahab stated, adding that repeat offenders would be subjected to even stiffer penalties.
The commissioner emphasised that illegal dumping of refuse and littering in public spaces would not be condoned, as government enforcement agencies have been mandated to act decisively. “The ban on cart pushers remains in force. They are largely responsible for indiscriminate waste dumping. Residents must desist from patronising them and instead use only registered Private Sector Participation (PSP) operators,” he warned.
Wahab, speaking through a statement by the ministry’s Director of Public Affairs, Mr. Kunle Adeshina, lamented the activities of some developers who obstruct drains and roads with construction materials. He warned that such construction sites would be sealed, and the culprits prosecuted in accordance with the law.
According to him, more than 3,000 environmental offenders have already been prosecuted, but he noted that this was “just the beginning” of the government’s renewed drive to ensure a cleaner and healthier Lagos.
He disclosed that enforcement teams from the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), the Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI) brigade, and other relevant agencies have been mobilised to operate round-the-clock. Their mandate includes the arrest, prosecution, and public naming and shaming of environmental violators.
Wahab’s declaration comes as the state intensifies efforts to safeguard the environment ahead of Sallah festivities and to mark this year’s World Environment Day.
The state government reiterated its commitment to enforcing all environmental laws and urged residents to support its drive by complying with regulations and embracing responsible waste management practices.
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