LAWMA shuts down over 25 buildings in Lagos waste management effort

The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has sealed more than 25 buildings on Ago Palace Way, Okota, Lagos. This includes a Mobil filling station. They took this action due to alleged environmental violations.

On Sunday, LAWMA carried out the operation to clear refuse from road medians and areas around bridge supports. They said illegal dumping had become a big issue in these spots.

Muyiwa Gbadegesin, the Managing Director of LAWMA, led the exercise. They used compactor trucks, a payloader, tipper trucks, and street sweepers for the clean-up.

In a statement on X, LAWMA explained that some of the sealed buildings had illegal stalls on road setbacks. These stalls housed street traders whose activities added to the littering and waste disposal problems.

Some cart pushers were also arrested for illegal dumping. One of them, Shamusi Muritala, admitted to dumping refuse on road medians. He told officials he charged customers up to N5,000 to dispose of their waste.

Muritala, who said he was from Katsina State, asked for leniency when questioned. LAWMA used this operation to teach residents and traders about proper waste disposal methods. They urged everyone to use approved waste collection channels.

Mr Gbadegesin stated that LAWMA would enforce laws against illegal street trading. He also pointed out that those supporting traders in banned areas would face consequences.

He warned that these activities obstruct movement, disrupt public order, and harm the environment. The operation was supported by the Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences Unit, known as the Taskforce, and the Kick Against Indiscipline team.

This operation comes after complaints about waste collection in the area. In August, The Guardian reported that residents of Ago Palace Way were upset about overflowing refuse and delays in waste evacuation, despite paying for collection services.

LAWMA confirmed that they would keep up with waste evacuation and enforcement operations. They aim to stop illegal dumping and protect public infrastructure all over Lagos.