LAWMA MD/CEC, Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin
The Lagos Waste Management Authority, LAWMA, says it will begin arresting and prosecuting people who buy goods from traders operating on roads, medians, walkways, setbacks and other unauthorised public spaces from next week.
The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of LAWMA, Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin, disclosed this on Tuesday at the Authority’s headquarters in Lagos.
He said the enforcement was part of renewed efforts to tackle illegal trading, indiscriminate waste disposal and obstruction of public infrastructure across the state.
Gbadegesin said the enforcement would target not only illegal traders but also their customers, who, he noted, sustain the practice by patronising the traders.
According to him, Section 151, Subsection 2 of the Lagos State Environmental Management and Protection Law 2017 makes it an offence to buy goods displayed or offered for sale in prohibited public places.
He said anyone convicted could face a fine of 90,000 naira, six months’ imprisonment, or both.
The LAWMA boss said illegal roadside and median markets often contribute to indiscriminate waste disposal, with refuse dumped in drains, on roads and other public spaces.
He said such activities could block drainage channels, worsen traffic and create public health risks.
Gbadegesin said LAWMA was also strengthening waste collection in inner streets and communities around previously cleared dumping hotspots.
He added that identified gaps in waste collection would be addressed, but warned that deliberate dumping, re-dumping and patronage of illegal markets would attract sanctions.
The LAWMA boss urged Lagos residents and businesses to patronise recognised markets and use approved waste disposal channels.
He said personal convenience should not come at the expense of public health, environmental sanitation, road safety and the orderly use of public spaces.
