LASG to reintroduce monthly environmental sanitation
…moves against syndicate behind cart-pushing business in Idi-Araba
By Adeola Ogunrinde
The Lagos State Government has announced plans to reintroduce the monthly sanitation exercise as part of efforts to promote a clean, livable, and sustainable environment. According to the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, a commencement notice will soon be published.
Wahab made this known on Sunday during an inspection tour of Idi-Araba, Orile Iganmu, and Alaba Rago, emphasizing the importance of good sanitation practices among residents to ensure a clean and flood-free environment. He noted that sanitation must become a daily habit and way of life across the state.
The commissioner stated that the government “has resolved to commence the Monthly Environmental Sanitation Exercise” and will announce a formal start date publicly. He also revealed that the Ministry had received intelligence about a syndicate behind cart-pushing in Idi-Araba and is working to eradicate the practice completely.
“At Idi-Araba, under Mushin Local Government Area, we observed a lot of cart pushers,” he said. “There is a law on environmental management and protection in the state that prohibits this practice. Enforcement efforts have already begun and will be intensified.”
While at Alaba Rago Market, Wahab recalled that the market had previously been shut down over poor sanitation and warned that a repeat closure may occur if the situation persists. He said the market chairman has promised to clear infractions and take responsibility for maintaining infrastructure within the premises.
He warned traders at Alaba Rago Market, especially those selling on roads, medians, and drainage setbacks, to relocate into the market and use designated spaces. The commissioner said the government would lock the market by 6 p.m. on Monday if illegal trading activities continue.
Wahab stressed that Lagos environmental law forbids trading on roads and drainage channels and urged illegal traders to desist or risk market closures. He criticized residents who refuse to pay for waste services but still expect clean surroundings, noting that 377 wards across the state have designated operators responsible for proper waste management.
He called on residents to stop littering and dispose of waste properly by bagging it at home and patronizing PSP operators. He said community support is vital and urged citizens to take ownership of government-provided infrastructure and avoid illegal waste disposal.
