LAWMA condemns attack on enforcement officers, warns against Illegal dumping

By Imisioluwa Afunmiso

The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has condemned the attack on its enforcement officers during an environmental monitoring and compliance operation along the Lagos-Badagry Expressway, warning that those responsible would face prosecution.

According to reports the incident occurred on Sunday when LAWMA operatives were reportedly attacked by suspected illegal waste operators and cart pushers while carrying out enforcement duties at Mazamaza Bus Stop, shortly after Festac First Gate

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, described the assault as unacceptable and a direct challenge to government efforts aimed at maintaining environmental sanitation across the state saying the enforcement team was only carrying out its statutory responsibilities when attacked by individuals allegedly involved in illegal waste disposal activities.

“Our enforcement officers were carrying out their lawful duties when they were attacked by individuals seeking to frustrate the government’s efforts to maintain a clean and healthy environment. Such actions are unacceptable and will not deter us from discharging our mandate,” he said.

He noted that assaults on enforcement personnel and obstruction of lawful government operations constitute serious offences, adding that the Authority was working to identify and apprehend those involved in the attack reiterating LAWMA’s commitment to enforcing environmental regulations and protecting public infrastructure from activities that undermine sanitation standards in Lagos.

He further noted that the activities of illegal cart pushers and operators of unauthorised dumpsites remain a major challenge to effective waste management and public health urging residents and business owners to patronise only approved waste service providers and dispose of waste through authorised channels in line with environmental regulations.

He also called on residents to support government efforts by complying with sanitation laws and reporting illegal waste disposal activities in their community saying that LAWMA would continue their efforts across the state to discourage environmental violations and ensure a cleaner and healthier Lagos.