LAWMA seals businesses over illegal dumping along Ago Palace Way

The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has taken action against businesses along Ago Palace Way, Lagos, due to ongoing illegal waste dumping. Managing Director and CEO Muyiwa Gbadegesin announced the enforcement on the Lagos State Government's official Facebook page. The crackdown resulted in the arrest of 11 individuals for unauthorized waste disposal in Lagos Island.

LAWMA targeted businesses and individuals who violated approved waste disposal practices as part of its ongoing efforts to curb illegal dumping and waste-related environmental nuisances. The enforcement focused on plazas, hotels, lounges, and warehouses identified by LAWMA as contributing to waste accumulation and environmental issues along the Ago Palace Way corridor.

According to Gbadegesin, the enforcement targeted activities resulting in waste build-up on road setbacks, medians, and unauthorized public spaces. The enforcement is a part of LAWMA's broader strategy to improve environmental cleanliness and address waste management violations at their source. The same enforcement actions were carried out across Tinubu, Apongbon, Oke-Arin, and CMC areas of Lagos Island.

Gbadegesin emphasized that the exercise aimed to encourage compliance and behavioral change in waste management, rather than solely apprehending offenders. The Lagos State Government has recently increased fines for illegal dumping to N250,000 or a maximum of three months' jail term, and has also directed motor parks and garages to improve sanitation and proper waste disposal.

The link between indiscriminate refuse disposal and worsening flash floods during heavy rainfall has been highlighted by officials. Residents, businesses, and property owners are encouraged to use accredited PSP operators for waste disposal and avoid unauthorized dumping sites.