Lagos Govt. Launch Arrests Over Open Defecation

The Lagos State Government has intensified its enforcement against open defecation, arresting 46 offenders in a fresh crackdown across major commercial corridors on Lagos Island.

The arrests were carried out by the state’s Anti-Open Defecation Squad during early morning operations targeting identified sanitation blackspots as part of ongoing efforts to enforce environmental laws and protect public health.

The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Lagos Waste Management Authority, Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin, disclosed this in a statement posted on the state government’s official page on Tuesday.

The statement read, “The Lagos State Government, through its Anti-Open Defecation Squad, has apprehended 46 male and female offenders during coordinated early morning operations across Lagos Island.

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.”

Gbadegesin explained that the monitoring operations were conducted around Ebute Ero and adjoining areas, including Apongbon, Isale Eko, Marina, CMS, Obalende and Adeniji Adele, locations known for heavy commercial activity.

The statement further read, “All suspects have been transferred to the headquarters of the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC) in Oshodi for further investigation and prosecution in accordance with the environmental laws of Lagos State.

He noted that the enforcement exercise forms part of broader efforts by the state government to eliminate open defecation, safeguard public health and maintain environmental sanitation standards across the metropolis.

Gbadegesin reiterated that open defecation violates environmental regulations and poses serious health and environmental risks, particularly in densely populated areas.

He urged residents and business operators to make use of approved public sanitation facilities and warned that offenders would continue to face arrest and prosecution under the law.