The Lagos State Government has arrested and arraigned five individuals for illegally dumping refuse in a canal along the Igando-Iba Road Link Bridge area.
The suspects—Quassim Jamiu, 44, and Ayo Jamiu, 18, from Kwara State; Alexander Innocent, 40, from Akwa Ibom; Oparinde Taiwo, 55, from Ogun State; and Moses Adelowokan, 76, from Osun State—were remanded at the Kirikiri Correctional Facility following their arraignment at a Magistrate Court in Oshodi.
According to Tokunbo Wahab, Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, the individuals were caught by operatives of the Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI) Task Force and security agents while offloading waste from a lorry into the canal.
This arrest occurred less than 48 hours after the state government issued a strong warning against violations of environmental laws.
Wahab reaffirmed that anyone found guilty of illegal waste disposal would face the full weight of the law.
“The state will ensure diligent prosecution of all arrested individuals to serve as a deterrent to others harbouring similar intentions,” he said.
He further cautioned that violators could face penalties of up to three months’ imprisonment, a fine of ₦250,000, or both, as stipulated under the Lagos State Environmental Management and Protection Law.
Highlighting the government’s dedication to environmental sustainability, the Commissioner emphasized that Private Sector Participation (PSP) waste operators are available in all wards to facilitate proper waste collection and disposal.
He encouraged residents to utilize these services to promote a cleaner and healthier environment.