By Abbas Nazil
Lagos State Government has denied having anything to do with a viral social media video, claiming that it has banned sachet water across the state.
The state’s Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, swiftly responding to the viral video in a statement he posted in his X handle, clarified: “It is important to emphasize that Lagos State has not banned sachet water and does not have plans to do so.”
He clarified further: “Our focus remains on effective plastic waste management.”
The video showed individuals bursting packs of sachet water in factories and buses, leading to rumors of a government-imposed ban.
He categorically dismissed the claims, clarifying that the individuals in the video were not state enforcement officers.
“Upon investigation, it was confirmed that the individuals in question are enforcement officers from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC),” Wahab explained.
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He clarified: “Their actions are part of an enforcement exercise targeting sachet water that does not comply with NAFDAC regulations, conducted in the interest of public health and safety.”
The commissioner stressed that the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu remains focused on addressing plastic waste through sustainable and inclusive measures.
As outlined during an Engagement Workshop held on October 3, 2024, the government’s commitment includes implementing mandatory Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) policies for producers of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), sachets, and carrier bags of no less than 40 microns.
To further support these efforts, Wahab announced the establishment of a Plastic Waste Management Fund in collaboration with Producers and Producer Responsibility Organizations (PROs).
This fund, financed by contributions from producers and major importers, will be jointly managed to address the growing challenges of plastic waste in the state.
The commissioner urged the public to disregard misinformation suggesting otherwise.
Wahab announced that the upcoming ban on single-use plastics and Styrofoam, set to take effect in January 2025, will not include sachet water or PET bottles.
Wahab’s clarification aligns with the state government’s ongoing efforts to balance environmental protection with public needs, ensuring sustainable solutions to plastic waste management.
