The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) says it has cleared the Alaba Rago setback along the Lagos-Badagry Expressway.

The Managing Director of LAWMA, Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin, confirmed this in a statement on Saturday, while commenting on the ongoing enforcement along the Alaba Rago corridor.

Mr Gbadegesin said the clearance of illegal traders, squatters and unauthorised structures underscored the Lagos State Government’s zero tolerance for environmental nuisance and indiscriminate waste disposal.

He said the operation became necessary following persistent indiscriminate waste disposal, obstruction of sanitation operations and illegal occupation of the expressway setback by traders and squatters within the axis.

According to him, the exercise is aimed at restoring environmental order, improving sanitation standards and protecting public infrastructure along one of the state’s major transport corridors.

“Road setbacks are not designated for trading, habitation or related activities. Continued encroachment on such public spaces will not be tolerated,” he said.

He said the government would continue to enforce environmental regulations and prevent activities capable of undermining structured waste management operations and environmental sustainability across the state.

He urged traders and residents to utilise approved market spaces and designated waste disposal channels.

Mr Gbadegesin said environmental responsibility and compliance remained critical to achieving a cleaner, safer and more sustainable Lagos.

He said the enforcement was carried out by LAWMA, in collaboration with the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps, and the Lagos State Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources.

Mr Gbadegesin said the operation followed the expiration of a three-day removal notice earlier served on occupants of the affected corridor.

According to him, several carts operated by illegal waste handlers and cart pushers were seized during the exercise, as part of measures to curb indiscriminate waste disposal and strengthen structured waste management within the axis.

He reaffirmed LAWMA’s commitment to sustained collaboration with relevant enforcement agencies, to maintain environmental order and strengthen sanitation enforcement across Lagos State. 

(NAN)