LAWMA to Arrest Buyers of Illegal Roadside Goods

The Lagos State government, through the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), is set to commence the arrest and prosecution of residents who patronize illegal roadside traders starting next week. Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of LAWMA, announced this initiative, emphasizing that the enforcement will target both illegal traders and their customers.

Under the Lagos State Environmental Management and Protection Law 2017, it is an offense to buy goods sold in unauthorized public spaces such as roadsides and walkways. Offenders may face a fine of N90,000, six months’ imprisonment, or both, as per Section 151(2) of the law.

Dr. Gbadegesin stated that this measure aims to disrupt the cycle that sustains illegal markets and the associated environmental problems, including indiscriminate waste disposal that clogs drainage channels and public spaces.