The Lagos State Government has arrested 46 individuals for open defecation during coordinated enforcement exercises carried out on Lagos Island.
The Managing Director of the Lagos Waste Management Authority, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, disclosed this in a statement on Monday. He explained that the arrests were made between February 20 and February 22 as part of routine environmental monitoring in areas such as Ebute Ero, Marina, CMS, Obalende, and Adeniji Adele.
According to him, 20 offenders were apprehended on February 20, followed by 15 on February 21, and 11 on February 22. The operations targeted locations identified as frequent spots for open defecation.
Gbadegesin stated that all suspects have been handed over to the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps headquarters in Oshodi for further investigation and possible prosecution in line with state environmental laws.
He noted that the enforcement exercise is part of ongoing efforts by the state government to eliminate open defecation, protect public health, and maintain environmental cleanliness across Lagos.
The LAWMA boss emphasized that open defecation violates environmental regulations and poses serious health risks, especially in densely populated commercial areas. He urged residents and business owners to make use of designated public toilet facilities and avoid actions that undermine the state’s sanitation drive.
Gbadegesin reaffirmed the government’s commitment to continuous monitoring and enforcement, warning that offenders would face arrest and legal action.
