The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has intensified its crackdown on illegal dumping across the state, resulting in the arrest of over 300 individuals for violating environmental sanitation laws.
Working in collaboration with the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC), LAWMA’s surveillance and enforcement teams have been conducting both day and night operations to track down offenders who indiscriminately dispose of waste in unauthorized areas.
Speaking on the operation, LAWMA’s Managing Director/CEO, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, revealed that many of those arrested have already faced legal action, including prosecution and community service sentences.
“This enforcement campaign is not just about punishment—it’s about setting a standard,” he said. “Our teams have been working around the clock, and the level of non-compliance we’re seeing is worrying.”
Dr. Gbadegesin cited specific examples, including the case of a man identified as Engr. Akinsola, who was caught dumping waste at the median along Egbeda-Akowonjo Road. He allegedly posed as a police officer when questioned but was later found to be unregistered with any waste disposal service and without a waste bin at his residence.
In another operation, 25 individuals—among them six private car owners—were apprehended for dumping refuse in front of a school on Shasha Road. Similarly, a woman named Fatima was arrested near Micom Bus Stop for nighttime dumping; her residence also lacked proper waste management arrangements.
“These cases show just how widespread the issue is,” Gbadegesin noted. “People often blame landlords or claim ignorance, but the law is clear, and violations come with serious consequences.”
He referenced Lagos State laws that prohibit waste dumping in places like roadsides, drains, and canals, noting that violators could face fines starting at ₦25,000 and even jail time.
Beyond arrests, LAWMA says it’s working to improve public awareness through door-to-door campaigns, its ‘Adopt A Bin’ initiative, and expanded recycling options. The agency has also deployed tricycle compactors to help improve waste collection in areas with limited access.
Dr. Gbadegesin urged residents to take responsibility for their environment, use registered waste collectors, and report illegal dumping. “A clean city is a collective effort,” he said. “This is not just about LAWMA—it’s about every Lagosian playing their part.”
For further information or to report environmental offences, residents can contact LAWMA via 080000LAWMA (08000052962), 07080601020, or dial 617.
