By Abdullahi Lukman
The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance on all forms of environmental infractions, warning residents to comply with sanitation laws or face strict penalties.
Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, made this known during a news conference held in Lagos on Tuesday, June 3, 2025.
He emphasized that the state would intensify enforcement efforts and prosecute offenders as part of its renewed environmental strategy.
“As we prepare for the upcoming Sallah festivities, large volumes of waste are expected. Residents must ensure proper waste management around homes, markets, and worship centres,” Wahab said.
He urged residents to sort and bag their waste and hand it over to the approved Private Sector Participation (PSP) operators assigned to each ward.
He warned against patronizing illegal waste collectors and emphasized the importance of timely payment of waste bills, stating that consistent service relies on responsible disposal and financial support to PSP operators.
Wahab also issued a stern warning against indiscriminate dumping of refuse in drains, medians, and roadsides, highlighting that such acts contribute to flash floods, public health risks, and urban degradation.
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He said such activities are now under strict surveillance and that offenders will be prosecuted, fined up to ₦250,000, or jailed for up to three months.
“There is also a total ban on open defecation and urination,” he added, describing the acts as unhygienic and inhumane.
Free public and private toilet facilities are available across the state for public use, he said.
The commissioner reiterated that street trading remains prohibited, with operatives from the Ministry of Environment, Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI), and the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) actively monitoring and enforcing compliance.
He also stressed that repeat offenders would face harsher penalties under the Lagos Sanitation Environmental Law.
“Anyone caught will be prosecuted and publicly named,” Wahab said.
Ahead of World Environment Day on June 5, Wahab reaffirmed Lagos’ commitment to ending plastic pollution.
He confirmed that enforcement of the ban on single-use plastics will begin July 1, 2025, following an 18-month grace period.
“There’s no going back.
This is a follow-up to the earlier ban on styrofoam food packs,” he concluded.
