The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has condemned an attack on its enforcement personnel by suspected illegal waste handlers during a monitoring exercise along the Lagos-Badagry Expressway.
LAWMA Managing Director, Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin, described the incident as unacceptable in a statement released in Lagos on Monday through the agency’s Director of Public Affairs, Mr Mukaila Sanusi.
He warned that any attempt to obstruct lawful sanitation operations would not be tolerated.
According to him, the incident occurred on Sunday at Mazamaza Bus Stop, shortly after FESTAC First Gate, during a routine environmental compliance inspection.
He explained that the enforcement team encountered individuals allegedly engaged in illegal waste disposal while carrying out their official duties.
Gbadegesin said the operatives were attacked by suspected cart pushers and illegal waste operators who tried to disrupt the exercise.
He described the assault as an attack on government efforts to protect public health and maintain environmental hygiene across the state.
The LAWMA boss stressed that such actions would not deter the agency from fulfilling its mandate of ensuring a clean environment.
He noted that assaulting enforcement officers is a punishable offence under the law and warned that those involved would be prosecuted.
Gbadegesin added that efforts were underway to identify and arrest all individuals connected to the incident.
Despite the attack, he said the enforcement team continued its monitoring operations across other areas including Iyana Iba, Okokomaiko and Agbara.
He explained that the exercise forms part of ongoing efforts to curb indiscriminate waste disposal and enforce environmental regulations.
According to him, illegal cart pushing and unauthorized dumping remain major challenges to effective waste management in the state.
He added that such practices also pose serious risks to public health and environmental safety.
Gbadegesin urged residents and business owners to patronise approved waste collectors and dispose of refuse through proper channels.
He called for collective responsibility in maintaining a clean and sustainable environment, urging the public to comply with environmental laws and report offenders.
The LAWMA chief reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to sustained enforcement across the state, warning that violators would continue to face sanctions.