By Abbas Nazil
The Lagos State Government has sealed another branch of Access Bank over alleged environmental pollution, intensifying enforcement against violations of state sanitation laws.
The affected branch, located on Land Bridge Avenue in Oniru, Victoria Island, was shut down following reports that it was discharging untreated waste into public drainage channels.
Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, disclosed that the action was taken after a whistleblower alert prompted a joint enforcement operation by the Lagos State Wastewater Management Office.
Authorities confirmed that the facility was releasing raw faecal matter into the drainage system, causing offensive odours and environmental degradation in the area.
The government stated that the property would face sanctions in accordance with existing environmental regulations.
This development comes less than 24 hours after another Access Bank branch in Victoria Island faced similar scrutiny over environmental violations and an alleged confrontation with enforcement officials.
According to the commissioner, an earlier inspection revealed that the wastewater treatment system at the other branch was not functioning, leading to the discharge of untreated effluent into public drains.
Officials said this failure resulted in significant environmental damage and posed risks to public health and sanitation.
During the enforcement process at the earlier location, government officers reportedly encountered resistance from security personnel and representatives of the bank.
Authorities alleged that enforcement officers were denied access to the premises and were subsequently attacked while attempting to carry out their duties.
Despite the obstruction, the wastewater management team collected samples of the discharged effluent, which laboratory analysis later confirmed to be contaminated.
The state government has indicated that it will pursue legal action against individuals involved in the alleged assault on enforcement officers.
It plans to obtain court orders to facilitate arrests and prosecution of those responsible for hindering lawful operations.
The recent actions underscore the government’s renewed commitment to enforcing environmental standards and addressing pollution in Lagos, particularly in high-density commercial areas such as Victoria Island.
Officials have reiterated that compliance with wastewater management regulations is mandatory for all institutions, warning that violations will attract strict penalties and possible closure of facilities.
