7 hours ago
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The Lagos State Government has arrested 46 individuals for open defecation as part of its ongoing efforts to protect public health and maintain environmental sanitation across the state.
The arrests were carried out by the state’s Anti-Open Defecation Squad during coordinated early morning operations on Lagos Island between February 20 and February 22, 2026.
Making this known on Sunday, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, said the offenders, made up of both males and females, were apprehended during routine monitoring exercises around Ebute Ero and adjoining areas, including Apongbon, Isale Eko, Marina, CMS, Obalende and Adeniji Adele.
According to him, enforcement officers intensified surveillance in locations identified as frequent open defecation blackspots.
“In his words,” Gbadegesin said: “On 20th February, 20 offenders were apprehended; 15 additional suspects were arrested on 21st February; while 11 more were picked up on 22nd February during sustained surveillance operations targeting habitual open defecation blackspots.”
He explained that all the suspects had been transferred to the headquarters of the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC) in Oshodi for further investigation and prosecution in line with the environmental laws of Lagos State.
Gbadegesin noted that the enforcement exercise was part of the Lagos State Government’s ongoing efforts to eliminate open defecation, protect public health and uphold sanitation standards across the metropolis.
He stressed that open defecation is a clear violation of environmental regulations and poses serious health and environmental risks, especially in densely populated commercial areas.
The LAWMA boss urged residents and business operators to make use of approved public sanitation facilities and avoid actions capable of undermining the state’s drive for a clean and healthy environment.
While reaffirming the government’s commitment to sustained monitoring and enforcement, he warned that offenders would continue to be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
