Lagos issues strong warning to Sarah Martins over street cooking

The Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources in Lagos State, Tokunbo Wahab, has issued a strong warning to Nollywood actress Sarah Martins for cooking on the street.

The warning, issued in a statement released on X, emphasised the need for safety and proper sanitation when conducting such activities. Wahab noted that although he understands the motive behind the act, it is not permitted under the Lagos environmental and public order regulations.

“Dear @officialsarahmartins, I hope you are well. My attention has been drawn to your recent activity of cooking and distributing food on the streets of Lagos. While we acknowledge and appreciate the spirit of charity and compassion behind what you are trying to do, carrying out such activities on public roads, walkways or medians is not permitted under Lagos environmental and public order regulations. Cooking or trading on public infrastructure poses safety, sanitation and traffic concerns. I would strongly advise that you desist from carrying out street cooking or similar activities in public spaces in Lagos in order to avoid apprehension and prosecution,” he stated.

Wahab encouraged Martins to follow the guidelines and proper channels when conducting such a charity outreach He urged Lagosians  to remain law-abiding citizens.

“If you wish to continue your charitable outreach, it should be done through proper channels and in approved locations so that your efforts can support vulnerable people without violating existing laws and constituting environmental nuisance. We expect everyone to be law-abiding in Lagos, just as they would be in any other well-regulated city. Thank you for your understanding,” he added.

Sarah Martins was previously apprehended by KAI officials in October 2025 for cooking and sharing meals with residents on a Lagos street.