Lagos Governor Orders Prosecution of Environmental Offenders
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu expressed his concerns over the state of environmental sanitation in Lagos and warned that offenders will face prosecution.
He also directed the planting of over 20,000 trees within the next year to mitigate the effects of climate change.
Governor Sanwo-Olu made these remarks during the flag-off of the environmental sanitation exercise campaign and the annual tree-planting events held at Campus Square and Lagos House, Marina, Lagos Island.
In his address, the governor called for the cooperation of all residents and stakeholders to make the exercise successful. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a clean environment for the health and well-being of all residents.
“Cleanliness is next to Godliness. We cannot fold our arms and see our environment debased. Our hospitals are full of patients due to our unhygienic environment caused by the carefree attitude of residents,” Sanwo-Olu stated.
The governor highlighted the unacceptable level of environmental nuisance, including the indiscriminate dumping of refuse in canals and the removal of manholes from roads.
He condemned the actions of those who vandalize public utilities despite the government’s efforts and funding.
“It is a shame that our people engage in this act, vandalizing public utilities despite the government’s efforts and huge funding. These people do not deserve to be among us,” he said.
To address these issues, the Ministry of the Environment will establish task forces to tackle environmental violations, and offenders will face legal consequences if caught.
“The era of uncleanliness is over in Lagos. That’s why we are flagging off this sensitization and advocacy campaign today from Lagos Island. This must start from homes, schools, markets, and offices. Government cannot do it alone; we have to work together,” the governor asserted.
Governor Sanwo-Olu stressed the importance of residents taking ownership of their environment, ensuring continuous cleanliness, and disposing of waste responsibly. He acknowledged the need for sustained efforts to maintain a sustainable environment.
“As a government, it is our collective responsibility to develop strategic methods to improve the environment, ensure it is flood-free, and make it conducive for residents. This can be achieved through the continuous cleaning of the environment from time to time,” he added.
The tree-planting initiative is part of the state’s broader efforts to combat climate change and improve environmental conditions. Governor Sanwo-Olu’s directives aim to foster a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable Lagos for all residents.
