ILLEGAL WASTE SCAVENGING: LAWMA Issues Stern Warning To Property Owners

… vows prosecution of violators

The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has issued a stern warning to property owners, agents and private occupiers in the state, to henceforth desist from illegal recycling and scavenging in unlicensed facilities.

According to a press statement signed by the Director Public Affairs, Folashade Kadiri (Mrs), it states that the the agency also cautioned against the indiscriminate sorting, dumping, storing, and trading of recyclable waste in private premises and public spaces, emphasizing that such practices pose significant environmental risks.

Speaking on the matter, LAWMA’s Managing Director/CEO, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, stressed that unauthorized recycling and waste trading not only tarnish the city’s visual appeal but also infringe on the rights of lawful property owners and contribute to hazardous environmental conditions.

Reinforcing its stance, LAWMA issued a final public notice highlighting a worrying increase in unauthorized waste sorting and trading. The statement declared:

“LAWMA has observed a rising trend of indiscriminate waste sorting, dumping, and trading of recyclables in unauthorized locations. These activities violate the Lagos State Environmental Management and Protection Law, 2017, and will not be tolerated. Any individual or entity engaging in illegal recycling or scavenging will face strict enforcement measures and penalties as prescribed by law.”

The agency reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a cleaner and healthier Lagos, warning that violators would face prosecution and stringent penalties in line with environmental laws.

LAWMA’s Managing Director/CEO, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, condemned these illegal practices, stressing that they degrade the city’s aesthetic appeal, disrupt property rights, and pose serious environmental risks. He reiterated that the agency would take decisive action to ensure compliance, including shutting down offending facilities and prosecuting violators under the Lagos State Environmental Management and Protection Law, 2017.

Citing Part III, Sections 85 and 86 of the law, LAWMA underscored that depositing recyclable waste in unauthorized locations is strictly prohibited. Dr. Gbadegesin further warned that property owners permitting such activities risk severe legal consequences, including the revocation of property rights.

“We cannot stand by and allow a few individuals to derail our efforts to make Lagos cleaner and more livable. Property owners who condone unauthorized recycling or scavenging will face legal repercussions,” he stated.

He urged residents and businesses to utilize only licensed recycling facilities and registered waste collectors for proper waste disposal. LAWMA also encouraged the public to report illegal activities through its official channels to support the agency’s mission for a cleaner, more sustainable Lagos.

“We remain committed to a healthier environment, but compliance is essential. We call on all residents to adhere to waste management laws and contribute to a cleaner Lagos,” Gbadegesin added.

LAWMA reaffirmed its dedication to enforcing environmental regulations, ensuring that Lagos remains a model city in waste management and sustainability.

Similarly, the agency emphasized that illegal waste sorting, dumping, and trading in unlicensed locations not only violate environmental laws but also contribute to urban degradation.

Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, stressed that property owners allowing such activities risk legal action, including the revocation of property rights. He urged compliance, warning that the agency would take all necessary measures to enforce the Lagos State Environmental Management and Protection Law, 2017.

Enforcement Begins: Squatters, Illegal Recyclers Evicted

In a decisive move to sanitize the city, a joint enforcement team comprising officials from LAWMA’s Monitoring and Compliance Department and the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC) has dislodged squatters and illegal recyclers operating under the Ijora-Olopa Bridge. This operation is part of the state’s zero-tolerance policy for environmental infractions.

In conclusion, Gbadegesin reaffirmed that similar enforcement exercises would be carried out across Lagos, ensuring that no individual or group undermines the government’s efforts to maintain a clean and livable environment.

“There will be no hiding place for those engaged in environmental degradation. We will continue to take strict action against violators across the state,” he stated.

How to Report Illegal Recycling Activities

LAWMA urged residents to remain vigilant and report unauthorized recycling and waste disposal activities through its official channels.

For inquiries or complaints, the public can contact LAWMA via: 080000LAWMA (08000052962), 07080601020, 617, or visit www.lawma