LASEPA seals establishments, scrap yards over environmental violations in Lagos

The Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) has taken action against several establishments and scrap yards in Agege and Mushin due to ongoing environmental law violations. In a statement shared on its X page, LASEPA disclosed that these entities were sealed for offenses ranging from noise and air pollution to environmental pollution and failure to comply with LASEPA’s directives, even after receiving warnings and abatement notices.

The agency explained that this enforcement action aligns with directives from the Lagos State Government to ensure compliance with environmental laws, safeguard public health, and promote a cleaner and safer environment throughout Lagos. Despite repeated opportunities to rectify the identified issues, the affected establishments failed to implement the required measures.

Dr. Babatunde Ajayi, the General Manager of LASEPA, emphasized the agency's dedication to protecting public health and preserving the environment through continuous monitoring and enforcement. He cautioned that LASEPA would intensify its efforts against any individuals, businesses, religious organizations, and corporate entities whose activities endanger the environment and public health.

Ajayi appealed to various stakeholders, including business owners, facility operators, religious institutions, scrap dealers, and residents, to embrace environmentally responsible practices, obtain necessary permits, adhere to regulatory requirements, and cooperate with LASEPA.

Several locations in Mushin were affected by this enforcement, including Akorohunfayo Central Mosque, Holy Temple of Christ, Christ Covenant Gospel Church, and Christ Apostolic Church. Similarly, multiple scrap yards were cited for environmental transgressions such as lacking e-waste permits, polluting the environment, and disregarding LASEPA’s directives.

The latest enforcement is part of LASEPA’s ongoing monitoring and enforcement of environmental regulations across Lagos. The agency is committed to ensuring that repeated violations and lack of compliance with corrective measures lead to facility closures. Previous enforcement efforts have highlighted that some businesses repeatedly disregarded environmental requirements despite warnings and opportunities to address the issues.

This ongoing compliance and enforcement drive across various parts of Lagos underscores LASEPA’s proactive stance against establishments persistently violating environmental regulations.