The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), in collaboration with its enforcement partners, has secured the conviction of eight individuals arrested for indiscriminate waste dumping along Ejigbo Road, Lagos.

The culprits were apprehended on June 28, 2025, following credible intelligence and reports from residents about persistent illegal dumping activities in the area. They were subsequently arraigned before the Special Offences Court sitting at Bolade, Oshodi.

In delivering judgment, the court imposed varying penalties on the offenders. Four were fined ₦20,000 each, with an option of community service, while the remaining four, charged with more serious offences, were fined ₦75,000 each or given the alternative of custodial sentencing.

Commenting on the convictions, the Managing Director/CEO of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, reiterated the agency’s zero-tolerance stance on environmental violations. He described the convictions as a significant step in LAWMA’s ongoing efforts to curb reckless waste disposal in Lagos.

“This is a clear signal that Lagos will no longer tolerate habitual abuse of the environment,” he said. “The successful prosecution and sentencing of these individuals mark a milestone in our enforcement drive. Illegal waste dumping will attract arrest, public trial, fines, community service, or even jail time. Our city must be clean, and we will hold offenders accountable.”

Dr. Gbadegesin disclosed that out of the 11 individuals initially arrested, two minors were released after undergoing counselling, while one adult was discharged on compassionate grounds with the magistrate’s approval. The remaining eight were convicted based on clear evidence of violating sanitation laws.

He added that LAWMA would intensify its enforcement and public education campaigns, especially in rapidly urbanising areas where infractions are more common.

“We are scaling up our monitoring and enforcement activities across the metropolis,” he stated. “At the same time, we are broadening our advocacy efforts to educate residents, especially newcomers, about their civic responsibilities and environmental obligations.”

He urged residents to report environmental offences, support PSP operators, and shun illegal waste handlers, including cart pushers. He reaffirmed LAWMA’s commitment to working with communities and stakeholders to ensure a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable Lagos.