LAWMA secures conviction of eight for illegal waste dumping in Lagos

 LAWMA secures conviction of eight for illegal waste dumping in Lagos

Lagos, July 1, 2025 – The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has secured the conviction of eight individuals arrested for indiscriminate waste disposal along Ejigbo Road, Lagos, following a joint enforcement operation with security partners.

The offenders were apprehended on June 28, 2025, after intelligence reports and community complaints exposed persistent illegal dumping activities in the area. They were arraigned before the Special Offences Court sitting at Bolade, Oshodi.

Delivering judgment, the court imposed various penalties: four individuals were fined ₦20,000 each with the option of performing community service, while four others facing a more severe three-count charge were fined ₦75,000 each or given the alternative of custodial sentencing.

Speaking on the court ruling, Managing Director/CEO of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, said the successful prosecution underscores the agency’s unwavering commitment to environmental enforcement across Lagos.

“This is a clear signal that Lagos will no longer tolerate habitual abuse of the environment. The successful prosecution and sentencing of these individuals mark a significant step in our enforcement efforts,” he stated. “Illegal dumping will now attract not just arrest but public trial, fines, community service, or even outright jail terms. We are determined to keep Lagos clean and will hold offenders accountable.”

Dr. Gbadegesin disclosed that 11 individuals were initially arrested, but two minors were released after undergoing counseling, while one adult was discharged on compassionate grounds with the court’s approval. The remaining eight were convicted based on clear evidence of violating Lagos sanitation laws.

He further stressed that LAWMA is intensifying enforcement operations and public education campaigns, particularly in rapidly growing residential areas where environmental infractions are becoming more frequent.

“We are scaling up monitoring and enforcement across the state while expanding advocacy to educate residents—especially newcomers—about their civic and environmental responsibilities,” he said.

The LAWMA boss also called on Lagos residents to support the government’s environmental agenda by reporting infractions, avoiding illegal waste handlers such as cart pushers, and collaborating with Private Sector Participation (PSP) operators for proper waste disposal.

Residents can report waste management concerns or infractions through LAWMA’s official contact channels: 080000LAWMA (08000052962), 07080601020, or 617. Emails can also be directed to info@lawma.gov.ng.

LAWMA reiterated its commitment to building a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable Lagos in collaboration with communities and key stakeholders.