LAWMA defends clearance of illegal structures along Alaba Rago corridor

By Adebola Isimijola, Lagos

The Lagos Waste Management Authority has defended the ongoing removal of illegal traders, squatters, and unauthorised structures along the Alaba Rago corridor on the Lagos-Badagry Expressway, saying the exercise is aimed at restoring environmental sanity and improving sanitation enforcement.

Speaking at the weekend, LAWMA Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Muyiwa Gbadegesin, said the operation became necessary due to persistent indiscriminate waste disposal, obstruction of sanitation activities, and illegal occupation of the expressway setback.

According to him, the enforcement drive is intended to restore order, improve hygiene standards, and protect public infrastructure along one of Lagos State’s major transport routes.

Gbadegesin stressed that road setbacks were not designated for trading or habitation, warning that the state government would not tolerate continued encroachment on public spaces.

He added that the government remained committed to enforcing environmental laws and preventing activities capable of undermining structured waste management and environmental sustainability.

The LAWMA boss urged traders and residents to make use of approved markets and designated waste disposal channels, noting that compliance with environmental regulations remained critical to achieving a cleaner and safer Lagos.

The exercise was carried out jointly by Lagos Waste Management Authority, the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps, formerly known as KAI, and the Lagos State Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources.

The operation followed the expiration of a three-day quit notice earlier served on occupants of the affected corridor.

Officials also seized several carts operated by illegal waste handlers and cart pushers as part of efforts to curb indiscriminate dumping within the area.

Gbadegesin reaffirmed LAWMA’s commitment to sustained collaboration with enforcement agencies to maintain environmental order across Lagos State.