The Environmental Special Offences Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, has levied fines and community service penalties against 40 individuals found guilty of indiscriminate waste disposal.
Presiding over the cases, the magistrate stressed the severity of the offences and their detrimental impact on the environment.
The court then imposed a fine of N30,000 on each offender, providing the option of six hours of community service in specific areas like the General Hospital, Odan, and Tinubu Market in Lagos Island.
Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, CEO/Managing Director, Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), applauded the court’s decision, underscoring the agency’s commitment to enforcing a zero-tolerance policy for indiscriminate waster dumping.
Gbadegesin said: “The verdict aligns with our unwavering obligation for creating a cleaner and healthier environment for all residents of Lagos, emphasizing the pivotal role of responsible waste disposal in safeguarding public health and preserving the surroundings.
Addressing the need for a cultural shift from waste disposal practices, Gbadegesin urged residents to support the state government’s efforts by using covered bins for waste disposal, and pointed out that the absence of waste containers in homes contributes to the problem of indiscriminate dumping.
“The penalties handed down by the court reflect the seriousness with which careless waste dumping is viewed. Stiffer penalties await environmental offenders, both individuals and corporate bodies, as LAWMA enforces the zero-tolerance policy.
“Since the recent crackdown on thoughtless waste disposal, the Environmental Special Offences Court has arrested and convicted over 160 individuals, imposing fines or offering the option of community service in locations designated by the court,” cautioned Gbadegesin.
