In a move to enforce environmental sanitation laws and prevent the spread of diseases, the Lagos State Taskforce has arrested 10 residents for open defecation in different part of the state.
The suspects were caught at Ebute Ero, Apongbon, and Inner Marina during routine monitoring and enforcement operations aimed at improving hygiene and maintaining order in high-traffic areas.
In a statement on Wednesday, the Managing Director and CEO of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), Muyiwa Gbadegesin, said the action supports Lagos State’s Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) agenda, which promotes cleaner communities and protects public health across the metropolis.
He described open defecation as a serious public health threat, noting that it contaminates the environment and increases the risk of disease outbreaks, especially in densely populated areas.
Gbadegesin added that the offenders have been transferred to the Special Offences (Mobile) Court in Bolade, Oshodi, for prosecution under existing environmental laws.
He also highlighted that Lagos currently has about 1,710 public toilets, while over 900 additional facilities are operated by licensed private investors, providing more access to sanitation services and discouraging open defecation in communities.
