LAWMA intensifies crackdown in Alimosho, arrests offenders, seals properties

The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has stepped up enforcement operations in Alimosho Local Government Area and adjoining Local Council Development Areas, leading to the arrest of offenders and the sealing of properties linked to environmental violations.

The exercise, carried out by the agency’s Project W.I.S.E (West) enforcement team, targeted indiscriminate waste disposal, illegal dumping and other activities contributing to environmental degradation, particularly across the Ikotun axis and neighbouring communities.

During a night surveillance operation, a 15-year-old boy (name withheld) was arrested for illegally dumping waste at the Ikotun-Egbe roundabout around 10:00 p.m. He was subsequently handed over to the Task Force office in Oshodi for further action.

In a separate operation, enforcement officers sealed a car lot at Iroko Estate along LASU-Isheri Road for discharging waste into drainage channels. A furniture showroom was also shut down for similar infractions.

LAWMA further issued an intention-to-seal notice to a mini store in Diamond Estate for failing to patronise a registered Private Sector Participant (PSP) operator, in violation of state waste management regulations.

The enforcement drive was also prompted by complaints from residents of Kaslat/Sarumi Street in Alimosho, who reported the use of a gated, undeveloped plot as an illegal dumpsite. Cart pushers were said to have been burning waste on the premises.

Following the report, LAWMA sealed the property and arrested a 65-year-old security guard, Abubakar Yunusa, who was allegedly complicit in the activity.

The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of LAWMA, Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin, reiterated the agency’s resolve to sustain enforcement across the state in a bid to curb environmental violations and protect public health.

He warned that indiscriminate dumping of waste, burning of refuse and the use of illegal waste handlers remain serious offences under Lagos State environmental laws and would attract strict penalties.

Gbadegesin urged residents to take responsibility for proper waste disposal by engaging only LAWMA-accredited PSP operators and reporting environmental infractions through official channels.

He added that the Authority would continue to respond promptly to public complaints while strengthening collaboration with communities to ensure a cleaner and safer Lagos.