Lagos seals mega plaza over dangerous environmental pollution
By Sodiq Adelakun
In a move to tackle environmental violations, the Lagos State Wastewater Management Office (LSWMO) has sealed off a mega plaza located on Breadfruit Street, Lagos Island, for discharging untreated wastewater into public drains and roads.
The LSWMO, in a statement issued on Sunday, condemned the plaza’s actions, describing them as a serious environmental nuisance that could jeopardize public health.
The plaza was found to be using a pumping machine to discharge untreated wastewater into the public drainage system during the night, a practice that significantly contributes to environmental degradation.
“The discharge of untreated wastewater into public drains, roads, and even lagoons not only pollutes the environment but also exposes citizens to communicable diseases.
This behaviour is unacceptable and will not be tolerated,” said the LSWMO in their statement.
After a thorough investigation, which included photographic evidence, the LSWMO took swift action, sealing off the plaza for its blatant disregard of environmental regulations.
The agency emphasised that the state of Lagos will continue to uphold a zero-tolerance policy for environmental offenses under the Lagos State Environmental Management and Protection Law of 2017.
The General Manager of LSWMO, Adefemi Afolabi, reiterated the government’s commitment to maintaining a safe and clean environment.
“Any organisation found guilty of such damaging practices will face continued sanctions. The state’s commitment to preserving public health through environmental protection remains unwavering,” Afolabi stated.
This move comes shortly after the state government sealed off a section of Bar 38, a social facility, for noise pollution and harmful air emissions in June.
The Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, had also warned that such environmental infractions pose significant health hazards to the surrounding communities.
The General Manager of the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), Dr. Babatunde Ajayi, emphasized the agency’s determination to enforce environmental regulations, ensuring the preservation of public health across Lagos State.
“We are committed to taking necessary action to safeguard the environment and public well-being,” he said.
