The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has ramped up enforcement operations across Alimosho and surrounding areas, leading to multiple arrests and the sealing of properties linked to environmental violations.
The operation, carried out by the agency’s Project W.I.S.E (West) enforcement team, focused on curbing indiscriminate waste disposal, illegal dumping, and other activities contributing to environmental degradation. Key areas affected include the Ikotun axis and nearby communities. Eyes Of Lagos reports,
During a night surveillance exercise, officials apprehended a 15-year-old boy (name withheld) for illegally dumping refuse at the Ikotun-Egbe roundabout around 10:00 p.m. The suspect was later handed over to the Task Force office in Oshodi for further action.
In a related operation, LAWMA sealed a car lot located at Iroko Estate along LASU-Isheri Road after it was found discharging waste into drainage systems. A furniture showroom was also shut down for similar environmental infractions.
Additionally, the agency issued an intention-to-seal notice to a mini store in Diamond Estate for failing to engage a registered Private Sector Participant (PSP) operator, a violation of Lagos State waste management regulations.
The enforcement action followed complaints from residents of Kaslat/Sarumi Street, who raised concerns about an undeveloped plot being used as an illegal dumpsite. Reports indicated that cart pushers frequently dumped and burned waste on the premises.
Upon investigation, LAWMA sealed the property and arrested a 65-year-old security guard, Abubakar Yunusa, for alleged involvement in the illegal activities.
Speaking on the development, the Managing Director/CEO of LAWMA, Muyiwa Gbadegesin, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to sustained enforcement across Lagos State. He emphasized that acts such as indiscriminate waste disposal, burning of refuse, and the use of unregistered waste handlers remain serious offences under environmental laws.
Gbadegesin urged residents to adopt responsible waste disposal practices by engaging only LAWMA-accredited PSP operators. He also encouraged the public to report environmental violations through official channels, assuring that the agency would continue to respond swiftly to complaints.
The intensified crackdown highlights ongoing efforts by the Lagos State government to promote environmental sustainability, improve sanitation, and protect public health across communities.