The Lagos Waste Management Authority, LAWMA, has warned residents who patronise traders operating in unauthorised public spaces that they will face arrest and prosecution from next week.
The enforcement will target not only traders but also customers buying goods displayed or sold on roads, medians, walkways, setbacks and other prohibited areas across Lagos State.
The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of LAWMA, Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin, disclosed this on Tuesday at the Authority’s headquarters during a renewed enforcement campaign against illegal trading, indiscriminate waste disposal and obstruction of public infrastructure.
Gbadegesin said the law does not only prohibit illegal street trading but also makes it an offence to purchase goods sold in prohibited public spaces.
He said anyone caught patronising such traders from next week would be arrested alongside the traders and prosecuted.
According to him, the enforcement is in line with Section 151(2) of the Lagos State Environmental Management and Protection Law 2017.
He explained that anyone convicted under the provision could face a fine of N90,000, six months’ imprisonment, or both.
The LAWMA boss said illegal trading along roads and medians contributes to poor environmental sanitation, as waste generated by such activities is often dumped in drainage channels, roads and other public spaces.
He added that the practice also obstructs drainage systems, worsens traffic congestion and poses risks to public health.
Gbadegesin said the agency was improving waste collection services in inner streets and communities around areas previously cleared of illegal dumping, noting that identified service gaps would be addressed.
However, he warned that deliberate dumping, redumping and patronage of illegal markets would continue to attract sanctions.
He urged residents and businesses to patronise recognised markets and dispose of their waste through approved collection channels.
Gbadegesin stressed that convenience must not be prioritised over public health, environmental sanitation, road safety and the orderly use of public spaces.
He reaffirmed LAWMA’s commitment to sustained enforcement, stakeholder engagement and improved waste collection services as part of efforts to eliminate open dumping and maintain a cleaner Lagos.