The Lagos State Government has intensified its campaign against open defecation, leading to the arrest of 46 individuals during coordinated early morning enforcement operations across Lagos Island.
The arrests were carried out by the state’s Anti-Open Defecation Squad during routine monitoring exercises conducted between February 20 and 22. The operation focused on identified black spots known for habitual environmental violations, including Ebute Ero and surrounding areas such as Marina, CMS, Obalende, and Adeniji Adele.
Providing details of the enforcement exercise, the Managing Director of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, explained that the suspects were apprehended over a three-day period. According to him, 20 offenders were arrested on February 20, 15 more on February 21, and an additional 11 on February 22, following sustained surveillance in the affected areas.
He stated that all 46 suspects have since been transferred to the headquarters of the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps located in Oshodi. The individuals are expected to face further investigation and possible prosecution in accordance with existing Lagos State environmental sanitation laws.
Gbadegesin emphasized that the enforcement drive is part of the government’s broader commitment to eliminating open defecation across the state. He noted that the practice not only contravenes environmental regulations but also poses significant public health and environmental risks, particularly in densely populated commercial districts where human traffic is high.
He further urged residents, traders, and business operators to make use of approved public sanitation facilities and avoid actions that could undermine the state’s environmental sustainability efforts. The government, he said, remains resolute in its determination to maintain cleanliness and protect public health through continuous monitoring and strict enforcement.
Authorities warned that surveillance operations would be sustained across identified hotspots, and violators would continue to face arrest and prosecution in line with the law.
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