Lagos to Arraign Three for Violent Assault on LAWMA and KAI Officers

Lagos to Arraign Three for Violent Assault on LAWMA and KAI Officers

The Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has concluded all requisite administrative and legal preparations to prosecute three (3) hoodlums apprehended for violently attacking enforcement operatives of the Authority and the Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI) during a joint routine enforcement exercise along Agboju Old Lagos Road.

The enforcement operation was lawfully conducted to curb illegal cart-pushing activities and the persistent indiscriminate dumping of refuse on the highway corridor acts which constitute grave violations of environmental sanitation and public order regulations within the State.

The Authority expressed profound concern over the recurring incidents in which its enforcement personnel are subjected to threats, physical assaults and unwarranted interference while discharging their statutory responsibilities. Such actions were described as reprehensible, unlawful and a direct affront to constituted authority, public order and the overarching framework of environmental governance in Lagos State.

The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin reiterated that enforcement Officers are deployed primarily to safeguard public health, uphold environmental standards, ensure strict compliance with waste management regulations and preserve the cleanliness, safety and liveability of the metropolis.

He stressed unequivocally that any form of violence, harassment, intimidation or obstruction directed at government officials in the course of lawful duty would attract decisive and uncompromising legal consequences.

Dr. Gbadegesin further emphasized that LAWMA’s enforcement operations are firmly grounded in the provisions of the Lagos State Environmental Management and Protection Law, 2017, noting that the three apprehended hoodlums would be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law to serve as a deterrent to individuals or groups inclined towards similar acts of lawlessness.

He urged residents of Lagos State to cooperate fully with LAWMA and KAI operatives, adhere strictly to approved waste disposal guidelines and report environmental infractions through appropriate institutional channels rather than resorting to confrontation, self-help or acts of violence.

“I issue a strong and unequivocal warning to members of the public against any form of attack, harassment, intimidation or obstruction of LAWMA and KAI officers while they are engaged in the lawful discharge of their statutory duties across the State,” he stated.

Reaffirming the Authority’s commitment to firm yet fair enforcement, sustained public enlightenment and the protection of its personnel, Dr. Gbadegesin called on community leaders, market associations, transport unions and other critical stakeholders to actively support government initiatives aimed at promoting environmental discipline, public safety and civic responsibility across Lagos State.

“LAWMA remains steadfast and resolute in the execution of its mandate to deliver a cleaner, healthier and more liveable Lagos for all residents,” he affirmed.

Oladeji Adebayo 

HOD (Ijora / Badia Axis)

LAWMA.