The Lagos State Government, through its Anti-Open Defecation Squad, has arrested 46 individuals during coordinated early morning operations across Lagos Island.
Managing Director of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin, revealed that the arrests occurred between February 20 and 22, targeting habitual open defecation black spots in areas including Ebute Ero, Marina, CMS, Obalende, and Adeniji Adele.
He explained, “On February 20, 20 offenders were apprehended; 15 additional suspects were arrested on February 21, while 11 more were picked up on February 22, during sustained surveillance operations aimed at curbing open defecation.”
All the suspects have been transferred to the headquarters of the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps in Oshodi for further investigation and prosecution, in accordance with Lagos State Environmental Laws.
Dr Gbadegesin emphasized that the exercise is part of the State Government’s ongoing efforts to eliminate open defecation, safeguard public health, and maintain environmental sanitation standards across the metropolis.
He added, “Open defecation violates environmental regulations and poses serious health and environmental risks, particularly in densely populated commercial corridors.”
“We urge residents and business operators to make use of approved public sanitation facilities and desist from actions that undermine the State’s environmental sustainability drive.”
The LAWMA chief reaffirmed the government’s commitment to continuous monitoring and enforcement, warning that offenders would continue to face arrest and prosecution under the law.
(NAN)
