The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has sealed more than 25 buildings over alleged environmental and regulatory violations while clearing accumulated waste along Ago Palace Way, Okota, in Lagos.
The enforcement operation, led by LAWMA Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin, on Sunday, targeted illegal waste dumping on road medians and around bridge abutments, as the authority intensified efforts to restore environmental order along the busy corridor.
The exercise involved the deployment of compactor trucks, a payloader, tipper trucks and street sweepers to evacuate accumulated waste and improve sanitation in the affected areas.
LAWMA’s advocacy team also sensitised residents and other members of the public on the dangers of indiscriminate waste disposal, urging them to use approved waste collection channels.
More than 25 buildings, including a Mobil filling station, were sealed for various alleged infractions, including the construction of illegal stalls on road setbacks and harbouring street traders whose activities were linked to littering and indiscriminate waste disposal.
Gbadegesin warned that the authority would enforce environmental regulations against illegal street trading and those who patronise traders operating in prohibited locations.
He said such activities undermine public order, obstruct movement and contribute to environmental degradation.
The operation also led to the arrest of some cart pushers allegedly involved in illegal waste disposal.
One of the suspects, identified as Shamusi Muritala, who said he was from Katsina State, reportedly admitted to dumping waste on road medians and pleaded for leniency.
During questioning, Muritala disclosed that he charged customers as much as ₦5,000 to dispose of their waste on road medians, highlighting the commercial activities contributing to illegal dumping in the area.
The operation received support from operatives of the Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences Unit, popularly known as the Taskforce, and the Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI) team.
LAWMA reaffirmed its commitment to sustained waste evacuation, stricter enforcement and public sensitisation to curb illegal dumping, protect public infrastructure and promote a cleaner Lagos.
Innocent Onoh
