Korede Abdullah 
Vandalized vehicle
LAGOS, Nigeria – The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has condemned an attack on its enforcement officers during an environmental monitoring operation along the Lagos-Badagry Expressway, warning that those responsible would face prosecution.
The incident occurred on Sunday at Mazamaza Bus Stop, shortly after FESTAC First Gate, where LAWMA officials were conducting a routine compliance exercise aimed at tackling illegal waste disposal and enforcing environmental regulations.
In a statement issued on Monday by the agency’s Director of Public Affairs, Mukaila Sanusi, LAWMA Managing Director Muyiwa Gbadegesin said the officers were assaulted by suspected illegal waste operators and cart pushers who attempted to disrupt the exercise.
“The enforcement team was attacked by suspected illegal waste operators and cart pushers who attempted to obstruct the exercise. Our enforcement officers were carrying out their statutory responsibilities when they were attacked by individuals seeking to frustrate government efforts,” Gbadegesin said.
The LAWMA attack has raised concerns over growing resistance to environmental enforcement efforts in parts of Lagos, where illegal waste disposal continues to pose significant public health and sanitation challenges.
Gbadegesin described the assault as unacceptable and a direct challenge to government initiatives aimed at maintaining environmental cleanliness and protecting public health.
He stressed that the attack would not deter the agency from carrying out its responsibilities across the state.
“Anyone found to have participated in the attack, or obstructed lawful government operations will face prosecution,” he warned.
According to the agency, efforts are already underway to identify and apprehend all individuals linked to the incident.
Despite the confrontation, LAWMA officers continued the monitoring exercise along the Lagos-Badagry corridor, covering Iyana Iba, Okokomaiko and Agbara.
The agency said the operation forms part of a broader strategy to curb indiscriminate waste disposal and strengthen compliance with environmental laws.
Gbadegesin noted that illegal cart pushers and unauthorised waste operators remain major obstacles to effective waste management in Lagos, often undermining government investments in sanitation infrastructure and environmental sustainability.
He urged residents, businesses and property owners to patronise only approved waste service providers and report illegal waste disposal activities to relevant authorities.
“Maintaining a clean and sustainable environment is a collective responsibility,” he said.
LAWMA has intensified enforcement activities in recent months as part of efforts to improve sanitation standards across Lagos and reduce environmental hazards linked to improper waste disposal.
About the Author
Oluwatobi Adu 
