Suspected illegal waste operators attack LAWMA officials in Lagos
Lagos Waste Management Authority Condemns Attack on Enforcement Personnel
LAGOS, Nigeria — The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has condemned an assault on its enforcement officers by suspected illegal waste handlers during a compliance operation on the Lagos-Badagry Expressway.
Managing Director Muyiwa Gbadegesin characterized the incident as unacceptable, stating that attempts to hinder lawful enforcement activities will not be tolerated. His remarks were shared in a statement released Monday by the agency’s Director of Public Affairs, Mukaila Sanusi.
The attack occurred on Sunday in the Mazamaza Bus Stop area, near FESTAC First Gate. Enforcement officers were conducting a scheduled environmental monitoring exercise when they encountered individuals suspected of illegal waste disposal. According to LAWMA, the officers were confronted and attacked by cart pushers and illegal waste operators seeking to disrupt their work.
Gbadegesin emphasized that the officers were fulfilling their official duties at the time of the assault, which he deemed an infringement on government efforts to enhance environmental sanitation. He affirmed that such incidents would not deter LAWMA from executing its responsibilities, vowing that enforcement actions will persist throughout the state.
The managing director further stated that attacks on enforcement officials are serious legal offenses, warning that individuals involved in the assault or obstructive actions would face prosecution. He confirmed that efforts are underway to identify and apprehend those associated with the incident.
Despite the disruption, the enforcement team continued operations in other areas, including Iyana Iba, Okokomaiko, and Agbara, as part of efforts to combat indiscriminate waste disposal and improve compliance with environmental regulations.
Gbadegesin noted that illegal cart pushing and unauthorized dumpsites remain significant challenges to effective waste management in Lagos, posing risks to public health and environmental sustainability. He urged residents and businesses to engage only with approved waste service providers and to ensure proper disposal of refuse.
He called on the public to support sanitation initiatives by adhering to environmental laws and reporting illegal waste disposal activities to the appropriate authorities. Gbadegesin reiterated LAWMA’s commitment to rigorous enforcement, cautioning that violators of environmental regulations will face appropriate consequences.
