Lagos Government Arrests 46 Individuals in Anti-Open Defecation Crackdown

The Lagos State Government has stepped up efforts to combat open defecation, arresting 46 individuals in a targeted operation across major commercial areas on Lagos Island. The arrests were executed by the Anti-Open Defecation Squad during early morning patrols aimed at known sanitation blackspots.

Breakdown of arrests and locations

According to a statement by Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, Managing Director/CEO of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), 20 offenders were apprehended on 20th February, 15 on 21st February, and 11 more on 22nd February.

Operations focused on areas including Ebute Ero, Apongbon, Isale Eko, Marina, CMS, Obalende, and Adeniji Adele, all locations known for heavy commercial activity.

Legal follow-up and public health emphasis

The arrested individuals, comprising both males and females, have been transferred to the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC) headquarters in Oshodi for investigation and prosecution in line with Lagos State environmental laws.

Dr. Gbadegesin stressed that open defecation is a violation of environmental regulations and poses significant health risks in densely populated urban areas. He urged residents and business operators to use approved public sanitation facilities and warned that ongoing enforcement would continue against violators to safeguard public health and maintain sanitation standards across the metropolis.

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