Quote from BukieBoi on May 10, 2026, 11:54 am

The Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, confirmed on Sunday the arrest of three individuals for the unlawful disposal of waste in the Ketu-Alapere axis. The arrests were the result of an “overnight surveillance operation” conducted between May 8 and May 9 by the Waste Infractions Surveillance and Investigation Team (WISIT) of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA). This move is part of the state’s aggressive strategy to end the culture of roadside dumping.

 

According to a statement released via the Commissioner’s official X account, the suspects were caught in the act of emptying large bags of refuse into unauthorized public spaces under the cover of darkness. The government noted that such activities are a primary cause of the recurring drainage blockages and flash floods seen during the rainy season. The apprehended individuals are currently being processed for prosecution under the State Environmental Management Law.

Wahab reiterated that the state has a “zero-tolerance policy” for environmental infractions and warned that the surveillance teams have been expanded to cover all 57 local government areas and LCDAs. He urged residents to utilize the designated Private Sector Participant (PSP) operators and to report illegal dumping via the ministry’s hotlines. The government believes that public naming and shaming of offenders will act as a significant deterrent to others.

Environmental activists have lauded the state’s proactive approach but have also called for more accessible waste bins in densely populated areas. They argue that while enforcement is necessary, the state must also address the logistical gaps that lead some residents to seek illegal alternatives. For now, the Ketu-Alapere arrests serve as a high-profile reminder that the “Eye of the State” is watching even during the late-night hours.

 https://guardian.ng/news/lagos-arrests-three-for-unlawfully-disposing-waste/