Lagos to Reintroduce Monthly Sanitation Exercise, Cautions Traders, Cart Pushers
The Lagos State Government has announced plans to reinstate the monthly environmental sanitation exercise as part of its renewed effort to promote proper hygiene, reduce flooding, and build a cleaner and more sustainable city.
Speaking during an inspection tour of Idi-Araba, Orile Iganmu, and Alaba Rago, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, urged residents to adopt good sanitation practices as a daily habit.
“The government is committed to maintaining a clean and safe environment for all. We are bringing back the monthly sanitation exercise, and an official date will be announced soon,” Wahab told journalists.
Crackdown on Cart Pushers and Illegal Dumpsites
Wahab disclosed that intelligence reports had identified a syndicate behind the illegal cart-pushing business in Idi-Araba. He reminded the public that cart-pushing is banned under Lagos State environmental laws.
“At Idi-Araba, we saw numerous cart pushers operating illegally. There has been statewide enforcement against this, and we are intensifying efforts,” he said.
He also flagged an illegal dumpsite in the area allegedly controlled by cart pushers, pledging firm action to eliminate it. Additionally, traders under the Daleko Bridge were warned against selling in unauthorized spaces.
Alaba Rago Market on Notice
During the visit to Alaba Rago Market, Wahab expressed displeasure at traders dumping waste on road medians and obstructing drainage channels.
“They have turned the road median into a refuse dump and extended the market onto the road. We’ve given them until Monday evening to clear these infractions. Failure to comply may lead to the market being sealed,” he warned.
The market’s chairman reportedly agreed to take corrective action, but the commissioner stressed that enforcement will be swift if infractions persist.
Waste Blocking Channels in Orile Iganmu
At Orile Iganmu, Wahab observed that the Iganmu Channel was clogged due to indiscriminate dumping of waste. He ordered the deployment of swamp buggies next week to clear the debris and restore the flow of stormwater.
Waste Collection and Public Responsibility
Wahab also addressed the ongoing challenges with waste collection, revealing that the state has deployed over 100 LAWMA trucks to assist struggling PSP operators. He blamed part of the issue on residents who refuse to pay for waste disposal services.
“People want to enjoy services without paying for them. That model is not sustainable,” he said. “We all must take ownership of our environment. Stop dumping waste in drains, roads, and canals. Bag your waste properly and patronise PSP operators.”
He concluded by urging Lagosians to support the government’s efforts by adopting responsible waste management practices and complying with environmental regulations. Read More
