Lagos Govt Arrests, Remands Man Caught Illegally Dumping Waste

The Lagos State Government has taken decisive action against illegal waste disposal as part of its intensified environmental enforcement drive. A combined team of officials from the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) and the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC/KAI) has arrested Mr. Ogunbadejo Olawale, a resident of No. 25 Ajiboye Street, Alapere, Ketu, after he was caught in a viral video illegally dumping waste on the Alapere link bridge in the Ketu area.

The incident, which sparked public outrage online, prompted swift action from the state’s environmental agencies. According to the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, the arrest was made following credible intelligence and surveillance, aided by reports from concerned residents.

Mr. Wahab confirmed that Mr. Olawale has been arraigned before the Environmental and Special Offences Court sitting in Oshodi, which ordered his remand at the Kirikiri Correctional Facility pending further hearing. The case has been adjourned to 26 June 2025.

Speaking on the development, the commissioner expressed dismay at the persistent flouting of sanitation laws by a segment of Lagos residents. He emphasized that the government would continue to clamp down on environmental offenders to maintain a cleaner and healthier Lagos.

“The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to environmental enforcement with the arrest of Mr. Ogunbadejo Olawale. This arrest, carried out by operatives of LAWMA and LAGESC/KAI, is a product of effective community collaboration and targeted surveillance,” Wahab said.

He explained that the state has launched a coordinated, multi-agency enforcement campaign involving LAWMA, LAGESC/KAI, and other relevant stakeholders to bolster monitoring activities across all local government areas. According to him, upgraded surveillance systems and increased field presence would ensure that violators are swiftly apprehended and prosecuted.

“The era of impunity is over. No one is above the law. Residents must adhere strictly to waste management regulations or face the legal consequences. This arrest should serve as a stern warning,” he warned.

Wahab also called on community leaders, local residents, and environmental volunteers to actively support the state’s efforts by remaining vigilant and promptly reporting any environmental infractions. He assured the public that such civic engagement would be met with immediate and firm action from the government.

Also reacting to the incident, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, condemned the unlawful act in strong terms, describing it as a direct assault on the state’s commitment to environmental sustainability and urban cleanliness.

“This arrest sends a clear and strong message to those who persist in sabotaging the government’s environmental agenda. Lagos is not a dumping ground. We have made significant investments in infrastructure, waste disposal equipment, and trained personnel. Illegal dumping will no longer be tolerated,” Dr. Gbadegesin said.

He noted that LAWMA is committed to enforcing proper waste management practices, and those who violate these standards will face the full weight of the law. He urged residents to make use of the formal waste disposal systems provided by the state and to play their part in protecting the environment.

The incident marks a critical reminder of the Lagos State Government’s intensified focus on environmental sanitation and its resolve to achieve a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable city through robust enforcement and citizen engagement.