The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has issued a stern warning to property owners, agents, and private occupants across the state, urging them to refrain from engaging in illegal recycling and scavenging activities at unapproved locations.
In a statement released on Friday, LAWMA’s Managing Director, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, emphasized the need to halt indiscriminate waste sorting, dumping, storage, and trading of recyclables in unauthorized facilities and public spaces.
He noted that such activities not only diminish the city’s aesthetics but also infringe on property owners’ rights and contribute to severe environmental hazards.
“LAWMA has observed a growing trend of indiscriminate waste sorting, dumping, and trading of recyclables in unauthorized locations. These actions violate the Lagos State Environmental Management and Protection Law, 2017, and will not be tolerated,” Gbadegesin stated.
He further warned that anyone caught engaging in illegal recycling or scavenging would face stringent enforcement measures and legal penalties.
Citing Part III, Sections 85 and 86 of the environmental law, he reiterated that depositing recyclable waste in undesignated areas is strictly prohibited. He also stressed that LAWMA would not hesitate to prosecute offenders and shut down non-compliant facilities.
“We cannot stand by and watch a few individuals derail our ongoing efforts to maintain a clean and livable environment. Property owners permitting unauthorized recycling or scavenging activities on their premises risk property revocation and other legal consequences,” he added.
Gbadegesin urged residents and business owners to only patronize licensed recycling centers and registered waste collectors for proper waste disposal. He also encouraged the public to report illegal waste management activities through LAWMA’s official channels.
“Our commitment to a cleaner and more sustainable Lagos remains unwavering, but we need the full cooperation of residents. Compliance with the state’s waste management regulations is essential for a healthier environment,” he stated.
Additionally, Gbadegesin revealed that a joint enforcement team recently dismantled illegal recycling operations and removed squatters from under the Ijora-Olopa Bridge. The operation was carried out by LAWMA’s Monitoring and Compliance Department in collaboration with the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps.
He affirmed that similar enforcement exercises would continue across the state as part of the government’s zero-tolerance policy for environmental violations.
“There will be no safe haven for individuals or groups attempting to degrade our environment or undermine our waste management efforts,” he declared.
Residents are encouraged to report illegal recycling activities to 080000LAWMA (08000052962), 07080601020, or 617, or by visiting www.lawma.gov.ng.