‎The Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), on Tuesday, September 8th, issued a warning to persons found patronizing traders who operate illegally on roads, medians and other unauthorized public spaces, promising to arrest and prosecute anyone caught in the act.
‎‎According to the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Agency, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, who made the announcement at the LAWMA headquaters, the prosecution of arrested offender will be in accordance with section 151, subsection 2 of the Lagos State Environmental Management and Protection Law 2017. ‎‎
He revealed that offenders could be charged with a fine of N90,000, six months of imprisonment or both.
‎‎He explained that the warning forms a part of the renewed enforcement strategy to curb illegal trading, indiscriminate waste disposal and the obstruction of public infrastructure across the state, adding that people who sustain such activities by patronizing would also be held accountable under the law. ‎‎
According to the Managing Director, illegal roadside markets generate waste which ends up in drains and other public spaces leading to blocked drainage channels, aggravated traffic conditions and posing as a risk to public health.
‎‎”Our objective is to stop the cycle that allows illegal trading and indiscriminate waste disposal to return after enforcement operations. Traders occupy public spaces because people continue to patronize them. Buyers must understand that their actions sustain the problem and that they are also accountable under the law.” he said. ‎‎
He assured that the Authority is still ensuring waste disposal in inner streets, communities and dumping hotspots that have been cleared previously, while dumping, resuming and patronage of unauthorized markets will attract prosecution.
He also mentioned that service gaps will be addressed. ‎‎Stressing the importance of prioritizing public health, environmental sanitation and road safety over personal convenience, he urged residents and businesses to patronize recognized markets and utilize approved waste collection channels.
‎‎The Managing Director affirmed the Authority’s commitment to sustained enforcement, stakeholder engagement and improved waste collection services to eliminate waste dumping and ensure that Lagos is cleaner. ‎‎‎‎‎‎