The Lagos State Government has taken action against 367 establishments, including churches, mosques, nightclubs, and others for environmental violations within the past three months.
Commissioner Tokunbo Wahab of the Environment and Water Services announced this during a ministerial news conference.
Wahab outlined that the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) conducted 367 enforcement operations across various sectors, such as households, markets, hotels, warehouses, eateries, and religious institutions, as well as 140 hospitality venues including supermarkets, nightclubs, and bakehouses.
These actions aimed to ensure compliance with state environmental regulations. Additionally, 76 abatement notices were issued to individuals and organizations found violating laws concerning the improper discharge of sewage into water bodies and other forms of pollution. The compliance rate with environmental laws was reported at 25%, compared to the previous year.
Residents were cautioned against engaging in practices detrimental to the environment, as the government is committed to safeguarding against degradation and climate change impacts. Various agencies have been empowered to prosecute violators of environmental laws.
The State government is heavily investing in environmental protection, particularly in combating climate change and its adverse effects on health and ecosystems. Enforcement efforts will be intensified to ensure adherence to environmental laws and promote a sustainable environment.
Wahab emphasized that LASEPA has been bolstered to enforce state environmental laws rigorously, aiming to prevent further degradation with its associated health and ecological consequences. The government will not tolerate actions undermining its efforts to preserve the environment for improved living conditions and sustainable development.
The Commissioner expressed concern over poor air quality levels across many parts of the State, citing weekly reports from LASEPA’s Air Quality Index. He warned against activities leading to air pollution, such as generator emissions, vehicular exhaust, industrial operations, agricultural practices like burning cowhide and electronic waste, and bush burning. Wahab urged participation in the government’s advocacy programs aimed at enhancing environmental conditions.
“The current air quality reports are unacceptable, largely due to poor environmental practices. We must be mindful of our actions towards the environment, as it directly impacts our well-being,” Wahab cautioned.
