Lagos bans sale of Rams on roads, medians ahead Eid-el-Kabir

The Lagos State Government has reiterated its ban on the sale and display of rams and other livestock on highways, road medians and other unauthorised public spaces ahead of the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations, warning traders and residents against violating environmental laws across the state.

Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, gave the warning on Monday during a media parley at his office, stressing that the state government would not tolerate street trading or activities capable of defacing the environment during the Sallah festivities.

Wahab said the restriction covers the sale and display of rams and livestock on major highways, road medians, lay-bys, gardens and parks across Lagos State.

According to him, while traders often take advantage of the festive season to market livestock, such activities must not obstruct traffic, endanger public safety or compromise environmental sanitation.

He warned that enforcement measures would be intensified against violators, including those engaging in street trading, erecting illegal stalls and converting open spaces into illegal markets or refuse dumps.

“Let me restate government’s resolve to firmly apply regulatory and enforcement measures against contraventions of environmental laws and regulations. I enjoin residents to voluntarily comply with the extant State environmental laws,” Wahab stated.

The commissioner urged residents to prioritise environmental cleanliness during the Ileya celebrations by ensuring proper disposal of waste generated from the slaughtering and processing of animals.

He advised Lagosians to properly bag waste and dispose of them at designated collection points for evacuation by the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA).

Wahab assured residents that the state government remained committed to sustaining efforts to rid Lagos of indiscriminate refuse dumps and maintain a cleaner environment across communities.

He noted that environmental sustainability remained critical to public health, social wellbeing and economic development in the state.

The commissioner also cautioned residents against environmental infractions such as maintaining unsanitary surroundings and indiscriminate waste disposal, warning that offenders would face sanctions in accordance with existing environmental regulations.

According to him, the government would continue to intensify public enlightenment and enforcement campaigns aimed at promoting a healthier and cleaner Lagos.

Wahab, while congratulating Muslim faithful on the forthcoming Eid-el-Kabir celebration, urged Lagosians to take advantage of parks, gardens and designated recreational centres across the state for relaxation and family gatherings during the festive period.