The Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has issued a stern warning to residents, cautioning against any form of attack, intimidation, harassment, or obstruction of its enforcement officers while they perform their duties to maintain environmental sanitation across the state.
In a statement addressing growing concerns, LAWMA expressed deep disturbance over recent reports of threats and physical assaults on its personnel during routine enforcement operations. The agency described such incidents as “unacceptable” and harmful to both public order and effective waste management in Africa’s most populous city.
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of LAWMA, Mr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, emphasized the critical role of enforcement officers in safeguarding public health, ensuring compliance with waste regulations, and sustaining a cleaner Lagos.
“Enforcement officers are deployed to protect public health, enforce compliance with waste management regulations and ensure a cleaner environment for residents,” Gbadegesin stated.
He made it clear that LAWMA would not tolerate violence or interference, “Any form of violence, harassment or obstruction directed at officers would be met with firm legal action… LAWMA would not tolerate attacks on its personnel under any circumstances.”
Gbadegesin pointed out that all enforcement activities are fully authorized under the Lagos State Environmental Management and Protection Law, 2017, which empowers the agency to penalize violations and offers legal safeguards to officers on duty.
He warned that perpetrators would face serious consequences, “Individuals or groups found assaulting enforcement officers or disrupting lawful operations would be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.”
The LAWMA chief appealed for public cooperation, urging residents to adhere to proper waste disposal guidelines and channel complaints through official means instead of confrontation.
He further called on community leaders, market associations, and transport unions to join hands in fostering environmental responsibility and safety.
“LAWMA remains steadfast in its mission to deliver a cleaner, healthier and more liveable city for all Lagos residents,” Gbadegesin affirmed.
The warning comes amid heightened enforcement drives to curb indiscriminate dumping and illegal waste practices, showing LAWMA’s commitment to firm, fair operations while prioritizing the safety of its workforce and the well-being of Lagosians.
