Lagos Issues N250,000 Fine or Jail for Illegal Waste Dumping, Cracks Down on Environmental Offences

The Lagos State Government has announced a fine of ₦250,000 or up to three months’ imprisonment for anyone caught illegally dumping refuse or littering the environment. The move is part of a broader clampdown on environmental violations, with authorities pledging stricter enforcement of sanitation laws.

In a statement released on the government’s official Facebook page on Tuesday, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources said the penalties fall under the Lagos Sanitation Law. He warned that repeat offenders would face even harsher punishments.

The commissioner highlighted the dangers of dumping waste in drains, medians, and road setbacks, noting that these actions contribute to flooding, endanger public health, and mar the city’s appearance. Over 3,000 offenders have reportedly been arrested and prosecuted so far, with the government intensifying its enforcement and awareness campaigns.

The government also issued warnings to developers and builders, cautioning against the illegal dumping of construction materials on roads or drains. Offenders risk prosecution and potential sealing of their buildings.

Open defecation and urination remain banned across Lagos. The government says over 1,710 public toilets are available for use, and squatters on pedestrian bridges often linked to open defecation and criminal activities have been ordered to vacate.

Street trading on roads, medians, and walkways also remains prohibited. Traders are encouraged to use only designated markets and stalls. Residents and businesses were reminded to work with only licensed waste operators and ensure regular payment for waste disposal services. A dedicated helpline is available for reporting uncollected waste.

Unregistered cart pushers, often linked to indiscriminate waste dumping, remain banned. Enforcement units from the Ministry of Environment, Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI), and LAWMA are actively prosecuting offenders.

The state is also preparing to enforce a ban on single-use plastics from July 1, following an 18-month grace period. This step is part of Lagos’ plan to combat plastic pollution and coincides with World Environment Day on June 5.

The commissioner concluded by urging residents to keep their surroundings clean, especially during the upcoming Eid-el-Kabir celebrations.