Lagos Waste Agency Speaks Out on Attack Against Officers

The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has spoken out against the attack on its officers by suspected illegal waste operators. This incident happened during an environmental check along the Lagos-Badagry Expressway.

The Managing Director of LAWMA, Muyiwa Gbadegesin, expressed his disapproval in a statement released on Monday by the agency's Director of Public Affairs, Mukaila Sanusi.

Mr Gbadegesin called the attack unacceptable. He warned that such actions will not stop the agency from doing its legal work.

The attack took place on Sunday at Mazamaza Bus Stop, just after FESTAC First Gate. This was during a regular environmental check and compliance exercise.

Mr Gbadegesin explained that LAWMA officers found people involved in illegal waste disposal while they were doing their official duties. "The enforcement team was attacked by suspected illegal waste operators and cart pushers who tried to stop the exercise," he said.

He added, "Our enforcement officers were doing their jobs when they were attacked by people trying to disrupt government efforts."

Mr Gbadegesin described the attack as a direct challenge to the government's work in protecting public health and keeping the environment clean. He emphasized that such actions would not prevent the agency from fulfilling its duty to keep the area clean and healthy.

He pointed out that attacking enforcement officers is a serious crime under the law. He warned that anyone involved in the attack or in blocking legal government actions would face legal action.

Mr Gbadegesin also mentioned that the agency is working to find and arrest everyone involved in the attack. Despite the incident, the enforcement team kept monitoring the area, including Iyana Iba, Okokomaiko, and Agbara.

He stated that this exercise is part of ongoing efforts to stop illegal waste disposal and promote adherence to environmental rules. Mr Gbadegesin noted that illegal cart pushers and unapproved dumpsites are major problems for waste management in Lagos.

He said these issues also pose serious risks to environmental cleanliness and public health. The LAWMA boss urged residents and businesses to use only approved waste service providers and to dispose of waste properly.

He stressed that keeping a clean and healthy environment is a shared responsibility. Mr Gbadegesin asked residents to support government efforts by following environmental laws and reporting illegal waste disposal activities.

He reaffirmed the agency's commitment to maintaining enforcement operations across the state and warned that anyone who breaks the law will face penalties.