LAWMA Appeals to Lagos Residents to Help Identify Illegal Waste Dumper at Alapere Link Bridge

 

The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has issued an urgent appeal to residents across Lagos State to assist in identifying a man caught on camera dumping refuse illegally along the Alapere Link Bridge axis. This call comes amid growing concerns over the continuous and reckless dumping of waste in public spaces, which poses a serious threat to the environment, public health, and the overall aesthetics of Lagos.

Background: Illegal Dumping at Alapere Link Bridge

In recent months, LAWMA has received numerous reports from concerned citizens and community stakeholders about ongoing indiscriminate dumping of refuse at the Alapere Link Bridge. This location, a vital artery within Lagos State, has unfortunately become a hotspot for illegal waste disposal activities. Despite the efforts of authorized waste contractors and LAWMA’s extensive public awareness campaigns, the menace persists unabated.

To combat this, LAWMA intensified its monitoring efforts, including on-ground surveillance by its field officers. Recently, a breakthrough was made when a LAWMA field officer, working alongside a vigilant trader in the vicinity who volunteered to help, managed to capture clear video evidence of the illegal dumping activity. This cooperation between LAWMA and local stakeholders highlights the importance of community involvement in tackling Lagos’ waste management challenges.

The Incident Captured on Video

On Tuesday, May 20, 2025, the illegal dumping was caught on camera. The footage shows a man deliberately and repeatedly dumping waste on the bridge, blatantly disregarding the laws and regulations governing waste disposal in Lagos. LAWMA officials have confirmed that the suspect is believed to have been involved in similar offenses several times over the past few months.

In a statement released on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, by the Lagos State Commissioner for the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, the details of the incident were shared with the public to garner support for apprehending the offender. The Commissioner’s statement reads:

"Over the past few months, LAWMA has received repeated reports of indiscriminate waste dumping on the Alapere Link Bridge. Despite several rounds of public sensitization and direct engagement with the community, the illegal activity has continued—undermining the work of our accredited PSP operators and threatening public health and the environment.

"Yesterday, 20th May 2025, one of our field officers working with a nearby trader who volunteered to support our surveillance efforts—captured this video of an unknown offender in the act of dumping refuse illegally at the location.

"This individual has reportedly engaged in this behavior repeatedly over months. Thanks to the courage of our field team, we now have clear visual evidence.

"While efforts are underway to trace the offender through his license plate number, we want to give civic-minded members of the public an opportunity to get involved in the war on those intent on destroying Lagos.

"If you recognize the individual in this video or have any information that can lead to their identification and arrest, please contact #Lawma_gov immediately via DM or email us at [email protected] or DM #muyiwag..Your identity will be protected.

"There is a small reward for information leading to successful arrest of the culprit. THIS APPLIES TO USEFUL TIPS ON OTHER SUSPECTED OFFENDERS."

Why This Matters: The Impact of Illegal Dumping in Lagos

Illegal dumping of waste is more than just an eyesore; it is a critical environmental and health issue that affects millions of Lagosians. When refuse is dumped indiscriminately in public areas such as bridges, roadsides, and waterways, it creates breeding grounds for pests and disease vectors including mosquitoes and rodents. These can lead to outbreaks of diseases like cholera, malaria, and other infectious illnesses that strain the already fragile public health system.

Moreover, waste clogging drainage channels exacerbates flooding during the rainy season, damaging homes, businesses, and infrastructure. The Alapere Link Bridge area is particularly vulnerable, as blockage of drains due to dumped refuse can lead to serious waterlogging and traffic disruptions in one of Lagos’ busiest corridors.

The persistence of illegal dumping also discourages investment and tourism, undermines community pride, and strains the efforts of licensed Private Sector Participants (PSPs) who operate under LAWMA’s regulatory framework to maintain clean and safe environments.

LAWMA’s Continuous Fight Against Illegal Dumping

LAWMA has, over the years, invested heavily in educating Lagos residents about proper waste disposal and the dangers of indiscriminate dumping. Through sensitization campaigns, collaboration with local communities, and deployment of enforcement teams, the agency strives to promote responsible environmental behavior.

However, the problem persists largely due to a small number of individuals who continue to violate waste disposal laws with impunity. LAWMA’s recent video evidence is part of a broader strategy to use technology and community partnerships to catch offenders red-handed and bring them to justice.

The authority has urged residents not only to avoid illegal dumping themselves but also to serve as watchdogs, reporting any such acts promptly through official channels.

How You Can Help: Be a Part of the Solution

The success of LAWMA’s efforts to keep Lagos clean depends heavily on the active participation of the public. If you live near the Alapere Link Bridge or anywhere else in Lagos, it is important to remain vigilant and report any illegal dumping you witness.

If you recognize the individual caught on camera or have credible information about others engaged in similar offenses, you can help protect your community by reaching out to LAWMA discreetly. You can contact LAWMA via:

• Twitter: #Lawma_gov (send a direct message)

• Email: [email protected]

• Direct message on social media to #muyiwag

Your identity will be kept confidential to ensure your safety and privacy.

Incentives for Reporting

To encourage civic-minded Lagosians to participate, LAWMA is offering a small monetary reward for information that leads to the arrest and prosecution of the offenders. This incentive also extends to tips regarding other individuals involved in illegal dumping across Lagos State.

Conclusion: A Cleaner Lagos is Everyone’s Responsibility

Illegal dumping at strategic locations such as the Alapere Link Bridge threatens the health, environment, and economy of Lagos State. The recent incident captured by LAWMA field officers, aided by community cooperation, serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of collective action in fighting this menace.

By staying informed, reporting illegal activities, and adhering to proper waste disposal practices, every Lagosian can contribute to building a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable city.

The Lagos Waste Management Authority remains committed to enforcing environmental laws and encourages all residents to join the fight against environmental degradation.