The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has issued a stern warning to residents against attacking, harassing or obstructing its enforcement officers during environmental sanitation and waste management operations across the state.
The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of LAWMA, Muyiwa Gbadegesin, sounded the warning on Friday following reports that some enforcement personnel were threatened and assaulted while carrying out routine duties.
“I am compelled to warn, in the strongest terms, against any attempt to attack, harass, intimidate, or obstruct LAWMA enforcement officers while they carry out their lawful duties across Lagos State,” Gbadegesin said in a post on X.
Describing the incidents as disturbing and unacceptable, he stressed that LAWMA officers are not deployed to provoke conflict.
“Over the past few days, we have recorded disturbing incidents in which some of our personnel were threatened and, in a few cases, assaulted during routine enforcement of environmental sanitation and waste management regulations. This is unacceptable,” he said.
Gbadegesin explained that the officers are on the streets to protect public health, ensure compliance with established waste management systems and keep Lagos clean and safe.
He warned that any form of violence or intimidation against LAWMA personnel would attract severe legal consequences.
“Any act of violence or intimidation against them will be treated as a serious offence and will be met with the full weight of the law,” he said.
The LAWMA boss emphasised that the agency’s enforcement activities are backed by law, citing the Lagos State Environmental Management and Protection Law, 2017, and other relevant regulations.
“For the avoidance of doubt, our enforcement activities are backed by the Lagos State Environmental Management and Protection Law, 2017, and other applicable regulations,” he added.
He advised residents to comply with lawful instructions during enforcement operations and to use appropriate channels to seek clarification or lodge complaints, rather than resorting to confrontation.
Gbadegesin also urged residents to cooperate with LAWMA officers, adhere to approved waste disposal guidelines and report environmental violations through proper channels.
In addition, he called on community leaders, market associations and transport unions to partner with the agency in promoting order, safety and environmental responsibility.
He reaffirmed LAWMA’s commitment to firm but fair enforcement, continuous public engagement and the protection of its personnel across Lagos State.
Elijah Adeyemi
