The Lagos State Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources has clarified the circumstances surrounding the recent arrest of an individual in the Admiralty area of Lekki Phase 1 for engaging in unauthorized activities on a road median.

In a statement issued by Tokunbo Wahab, Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources on Friday, explained that officials of the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC/KAI) apprehended the individual, who claimed to be conducting a charitable cooking outreach on the public infrastructure.

While acknowledging the intent behind the initiative, the Ministry emphasized that such acts though philanthropic contravene the state’s environmental and sanitation laws.

“The Lagos State Government appreciates the spirit of community support and generosity among residents,” the statement read. “However, all such initiatives must comply with existing regulations to ensure public safety, environmental protection, and urban order.”

The statement reaffirmed Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to sustaining a clean, livable, and orderly Lagos. It noted that the unauthorized use of public spaces, such as road medians, for personal, commercial, or charitable purposes poses risks including infrastructure damage, health hazards, and potential traffic obstructions.

He disclosed that the enforcement action, which involved the arrest and removal of equipment, was part of the ongoing #KeepLagosClean and #ZeroToleranceLagos campaigns aimed at promoting environmental discipline and preserving the city’s aesthetic appeal.

He urged residents to obtain necessary approvals or use designated spaces for their outreach programs, stressing that proper coordination with relevant agencies would help ensure compliance with safety and environmental standards.

“By working together with the proper authorities, residents can make a positive impact while safeguarding our shared urban spaces,” he added.