The Lagos State government has taken decisive action in a bid to tackle the issue of waste disposal offences. As a result, the Ogba City Mall in Ikeja and the Ajah Market in Etti-Osa have been sealed off by a combined enforcement team consisting of 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).
In an official statement released by the Director of Public Affairs for LAWMA, Mrs Folashade Kadiri, it was revealed that the enforcement team also cleared shanties and illegal traders’ structures around the Ajah BRT corridor and Ajah Jubilee Bridge.
Commenting on the situation, the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Mr Tokunbo Wahab, emphasized that this enforcement action is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to combat filth and indiscriminate waste disposal in markets and business establishments across the state.
“We are intensifying our efforts to enforce our zero tolerance policy towards filth and irresponsible waste disposal by traders and business owners,” Wahab stated. “We have repeatedly warned them to expect consequences if they fail to take the necessary steps to maintain a clean environment.”
Wahab further emphasized that the administration led by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu is fully committed to this objective, as it is in the best interests of the general public.
Meanwhile, Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin, the Managing Director and CEO of LAWMA, reiterated that the zero tolerance campaign is an ongoing one. He urged markets and business stakeholders to proactively take measures to ensure clean and hygienic premises.
“Once again, we strongly encourage all business owners and markets to reject filth and implement responsible waste disposal practices within their operating areas,” Gbadegesin urged.
This recent enforcement action serves as a reminder that the Lagos State government will not waver in its commitment to creating a cleaner and healthier environment for all citizens. By sealing off these establishments, the government is sending a clear message that negligence in waste management will not be tolerated.
It is now up to businesses, traders, and market operators to recognize their role in maintaining a sustainable and hygienic environment, as failure to do so may lead to further closures and penalties in the future. The time for action is now!
