The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has ramped up enforcement across the state, sealing off Ile Iyan, a business place located on Herbert Macaulay Way, Sabo, Yaba, for violating waste disposal rules.
The agency has also launched a major crackdown on illegal cart pushers to address growing environmental concerns.
Speaking on the action via their X page on Wednesday, LAWMA’s Managing Director and CEO, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, revealed that the facility was shut down due to reckless waste disposal practices.
Gbadegesin said, “Our operatives discovered evidence of Ile Iyan’s waste disposal at an illegal dumpsite near Aje Comprehensive High School’s fence in Sabo, Yaba. Although the facility claimed to have enlisted with LAWMA, they were unable to provide any proof of registration or documentation. This left us with no choice but to seal off their premises to compel compliance.”
Gbadegesin stressed LAWMA’s commitment to strict enforcement, insisting that all businesses in Lagos must adhere to waste management regulations to ensure a cleaner, healthier environment for residents.
“Every business operating in Lagos must be registered with LAWMA and comply with approved waste management guidelines. Defaulters will face strict penalties, including the sealing of their premises. This will help us safeguard our environment, making it livable for all residents.”
Also, the agency also extended its crackdown to illegal cart pushers operating in areas like Ejigbo, Isolo, and Somolu. Gbadegesin described these cart pushers as a significant threat to LAWMA’s efforts, accusing them of indiscriminate waste dumping that harms the environment and endangers public health.
“These illegal cart pushers are sabotaging our work. They dump waste carelessly, degrading the environment and putting residents at risk of serious health problems. We urge Lagosians to stop patronizing them. Anyone caught will face arrest and prosecution. Instead, residents should use assigned PSP operators for proper waste disposal,” he said.
Referring to the legal basis for LAWMA’s actions, Gbadegesin highlighted the Lagos State Environmental Management and Protection Law.
“Section 82 (1) of the law clearly states that dumping waste in unauthorised locations, such as road medians, is illegal. Offenders risk fines of not less than ₦25,000 and potential jail term under Section 109. These regulations exist to protect our environment and the health of Lagosians,” Gbadegesin noted.
LAWMA is working closely with other state agencies, including the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC), to prosecute violators and uphold environmental standards.
Moreso, Gbadegesin highlighted, “There is no hiding place for defaulters. With the support of sister agencies, we will continue to arrest and prosecute those who flout waste management laws. Our goal is to make Lagos cleaner, safer, and more sustainable for everyone.”
Calling on Lagos residents, the managing director charged thm to take responsibility for proper waste disposal, emphasizing the collective effort needed to maintain a sustainable environment.
Therefore, Gbadegesin warned that improper waste disposal contributes to preventable issues like flooding and the spread of diseases such as cholera.
