Chukwu Obinna 
LAGOS, Nigeria – Lagos authorities have arrested 50 suspects during a statewide sanitation crackdown, intensifying enforcement as the state pushes to curb environmental violations and protect public infrastructure.
The Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences Unit said the arrests were made during the monthly environmental sanitation exercise across multiple hotspots, including Ikeja, Agege, Lagos Island and the Lekki–Epe corridor.
Chairman of the task force, Adetayo Akerele, said those apprehended along the Lekki–Epe Expressway would face prosecution for alleged offences ranging from public disturbance to actions threatening road infrastructure such as billboards and signage.
“Some suspects were implicated in acts threatening public infrastructure… all will be charged to court,” he said.
The operation recorded broad compliance with movement restrictions, although officials noted pockets of non-compliance among residents.
Authorities say the monthly exercise targets indiscriminate waste disposal, street trading, open defecation and other infractions under the Lagos environmental law framework.
Akerele also appealed to young residents to avoid street football during sanitation hours and take greater responsibility for environmental hygiene.
The crackdown underscores Lagos’ zero-tolerance stance on environmental violations as the state battles rising waste generation and flood risks.
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Oluwatobi Adu 