The Chairman of Somolu Local Government Area, Lagos State, Mr Lateef Ashimi, has declared zero tolerance for illegal waste disposal.
Ashimi issued the warning on Monday during an inspection tour of canals, streets, and public infrastructure in the area.
The inspection followed Sunday’s heavy rainfall, which raised concerns over flooding and environmental hazards across affected communities.
The chairman led officials to assess waterways connecting communities, schools, and major public facilities within the council area.
He warned residents against dumping refuse into drainage channels and identified environmental hotspots requiring urgent attention.
Ashimi directed the Supervisor for Environment and the Environmental Department to enforce relevant state laws and ensure strict compliance.
He urged the environmental team to punish offenders violating sanitation regulations.
The inspection also covered ongoing road reconstruction projects and areas severely affected by the downpour.
Ashimi said immediate measures would be taken to reduce flooding impacts on residents and property.
“I assure you that we will urgently engage the Lagos State Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources,” he said.
The chairman added that intervention was needed to prevent massive wastewater blockages as seasonal rains continued.
He described the move as a proactive step towards flood control and the protection of lives and property.
Ashimi was accompanied by council executives and councillors during the inspection of the canal network.
The team assessed the Akoka-Igbari channel corridor extending toward the Yaba axis.
Meanwhile, the Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) recently advised residents to maintain proper waste disposal practices.
LAWMA’s Managing Director, Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin, warned that offenders would face prosecution, with penalties including fines or jail terms under existing environmental regulations.
He added that the agency had prepared measures to manage increased waste generation during the Sallah celebrations.
