LAWMA Arrests Over 300 for Waste Offences in Lagos

LAWMA Arrests Over 300 for Waste Offences in Lagos

Lagos, April 22, 2025 — The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has intensified its crackdown on illegal waste disposal, with over 300 individuals apprehended and several others prosecuted in a renewed enforcement drive across the state.

The arrests, carried out in collaboration with the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC), followed weeks of day and night surveillance operations targeting individuals and businesses engaging in reckless dumping practices.

Managing Director/CEO of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, revealed that the agency had implemented a multi-layered strategy involving mobile enforcement teams and undercover surveillance units to combat environmental infractions.

“Our night surveillance team, working closely with LAGESC, has arrested more than 300 individuals for various waste-related violations,” Dr. Gbadegesin stated. “Many of them have already faced legal action, with several sentenced to community service. This crackdown sends a strong message to would-be offenders that the law will take its course.”

Among notable cases was the arrest of one Engr. Akinsola, caught on February 7, 2025, at around 9:20 p.m., dumping refuse on a road median along Egbeda-Akowonjo Road. Upon questioning, he falsely claimed to be a police officer, but further investigations revealed he neither had a waste bin nor was registered with a Private Sector Participant (PSP) operator. He later admitted to acting on the instructions of his landlord. Legal proceedings are ongoing.

Similarly, 25 individuals, including six car owners, were arrested near Abati Primary School on Shasha Road for dumping large volumes of waste using their personal vehicles. In another incident, a woman identified as Fatima was nabbed near Micom Bus Stop, Akowonjo Road, also unregistered with a PSP. She is currently undergoing prosecution.

“These incidents highlight a troubling trend of nighttime illegal dumping, often by residents without registered waste services,” Dr. Gbadegesin noted.

Citing Section 82(1) of the Lagos State Environmental Management and Protection Law, he reminded residents that dumping refuse in unauthorised locations such as drains, canals, or road medians is punishable by fines starting at ₦25,000, and in severe cases, jail terms under Section 109 of the law.

Dr. Gbadegesin reaffirmed LAWMA’s commitment to a cleaner Lagos, noting that enforcement will remain consistent and uncompromising.

“Our mandate is clear: to protect public health and ensure environmental safety. Enforcement is non-negotiable,” he said.

He also encouraged public participation in environmental monitoring, urging residents to report violators and support LAWMA’s initiatives by patronising registered PSPs and adopting proper waste management habits.

The LAWMA boss highlighted ongoing efforts to improve waste collection, including the use of tricycle compactors, recycling expansion, and the 'Adopt-A-Bin' campaign aimed at promoting waste container ownership.

“Our aim is to prevent issues like flooding and disease outbreaks. Everyone has a role to play. This is the era of ‘See Something, Say Something,’” he added.

Residents can report infractions or make inquiries via LAWMA’s toll-free numbers: 080000LAWMA (08000052962), 07080601020, and 617, or by visiting www.lawma.gov.ng.