The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has sealed more than 25 buildings, including a Mobil filling station, along Ago Palace Way in Okota, Lagos, as part of a crackdown on illegal waste disposal and other environmental violations.
The enforcement operation, conducted on Sunday, October 11, 2026, also targeted refuse dumped on road medians and around bridge abutments, areas the authority identified as recurring hotspots for indiscriminate waste disposal.
Brandspur Brand News reports that LAWMA Managing Director, Muyiwa Gbadegesin, led the exercise, which involved compactor trucks, a payloader, tipper trucks and street sweepers deployed to clear accumulated refuse and restore the affected areas.
According to the authority, some of the sealed premises had illegal stalls on road setbacks, while others accommodated street traders whose activities allegedly contributed to littering and improper waste disposal.
The operation also led to the arrest of some cart pushers accused of dumping refuse in unauthorised locations. One of those arrested, identified as Shamusi Muritala, reportedly admitted collecting money from customers to dispose of their waste, with payments reaching N5,000.
Muritala, who identified himself as a native of Katsina State, reportedly appealed for leniency when questioned by officials.
LAWMA said the exercise combined enforcement with public education, as officials urged residents, traders and businesses to dispose of their waste through approved collection channels rather than using road medians and other prohibited locations.
Gbadegesin warned that the agency would take action against illegal street trading and people who patronised traders operating in restricted areas. He said such activities obstructed movement, disrupted public order and contributed to environmental degradation.
Personnel from the Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences Unit, commonly known as the Taskforce, and the Kick Against Indiscipline team supported the operation.
The crackdown comes amid complaints from residents about waste management along Ago Palace Way. In August 2026, The Guardian reported concerns over overflowing refuse and delays in evacuation, despite residents paying for waste collection services.
The complaints highlight the challenge of maintaining clean streets in densely populated parts of Lagos, where illegal dumping can undermine waste collection efforts and leave refuse accumulating in public spaces.
While Sunday’s operation focused on enforcement and clearing existing waste, LAWMA said it would continue evacuation exercises and action against illegal dumping across the state to protect public infrastructure and improve environmental conditions.
The agency’s latest action also places renewed attention on the responsibilities of property owners, businesses, traders and residents in keeping public spaces free of refuse, particularly along busy roads where indiscriminate dumping can affect movement and the surrounding environment.
