By Rashidat Oladele
The residents of Ikotun-Igando Local Council Development Area (LCDA) in Lagos have raised their concerns regarding the council’s regulations against open burning of refuse.
The imposition of mandatory fines on those who violate this regulation has sparked discontent among the local community.
The local council’s stance on open burning of refuse is in alignment with the state government’s commitment to maintaining clean air in communities.
This commitment extends to a zero-tolerance policy on refuse burning, which has been officially declared unlawful by the state.
According to Section 14 (A and B) of Lagos State’s environmental sanitation law, individuals are prohibited from burning waste of any kind on their premises or disposing of waste at unauthorized locations.
Violating this law carries the potential for imprisonment, fines, or both. Those caught in the act face severe penalties, including a fine of N50,000.
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An official from the local council highlighted their collaboration with the legal department under the environmental department to enforce these regulations.
The department issues notices and prosecutes individuals found to be violating the refuse burning prohibition. The law itself has been in place since 2010, and its existence has been communicated widely through various media channels.
However, the residents’ concerns prompted a response from the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA).
Mrs. Bola Ajao, the Public Relations Officer of LASEPA, emphasized that matters concerning the environment, including enforcement and the burning of refuse, fall under the agency’s jurisdiction.
She clarified that local councils are responsible for overseeing environmental sanitation and ensuring the cleanliness and hygiene of the local environment.
Their authority is limited to these areas, and they do not possess the power to enforce environmental laws or address environmental offenses.
As the dialogue between the local council, residents, and LASEPA continues, it underscores the significance of effective communication and collaboration between relevant authorities to address environmental concerns while upholding legal frameworks that promote cleaner and healthier communities.
