By Imisioluwa Afunmiso
The Lagos State Government has queried an officer of the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC) over allegations of corruption after a viral video captured him receiving a ₦20,000 bribe from a suspected environmental offender.
The Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, disclosed this in a statement on Friday, describing the alleged conduct as unacceptable and contrary to the ethical standards expected of the agency’s officers.
According to the commissioner, the officer has been formally queried, and a Personnel Management Board (PMB) will be constituted to investigate the allegation in line with the Lagos State Civil Service Rules and Regulations.
Wahab stated that his attention had been drawn to the viral video showing the officer receiving a bribe from a lawbreaker, emphasizing that such conduct runs entirely contrary to the rules, ethics, and core values of the agency.
He added that the government would ensure due process is followed in handling the matter, stressing that any officer found culpable will face appropriate disciplinary measures.
Wahab reiterated that the Lagos State Government maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward corruption and any form of misconduct within its public service, and that culpable officers will be subjected to the disciplinary measures stipulated by relevant regulations.
The Commissioner also warned residents against attempting to compromise public officials, noting that offering a bribe is equally an offense under the law.
He reminded Lagosians that offering a bribe is just as unlawful as receiving one, urging everyone to obey the law and refrain from attempting to compromise enforcement officers so that society can uphold integrity, strengthen public trust, and build accountability.
According to the query letter issued to the officer, dated July 10, 2026, and referenced MOE/LAGESC/431/56, the officer allegedly collected ₦20,000 from an environmental offender in an incident that was recorded and circulated on social media.
The letter stated that the video was viewed by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who described the alleged act as corruption and extortion amounting to serious misconduct under the Public Service Rules.
The officer was directed to submit a written explanation within 48 hours indicating why disciplinary action should not be taken against him, with a warning that failure to respond within the stipulated period could attract immediate sanctions