Lagos residents face arrest over illegal roadside shopping

The Lagos State Waste Management Authority has warned residents against patronising traders operating on roads, medians, walkways, setbacks and other unauthorised public spaces across the state.

LAWMA said residents who continue to patronise such illegal roadside traders could be arrested and prosecuted as part of a renewed enforcement drive expected to begin next week.

The warning was disclosed by the agency’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin, during an engagement at LAWMA’s headquarters in Lagos on Tuesday.

According to the authority, the renewed enforcement is aimed at tackling illegal trading, indiscriminate waste disposal and activities that obstruct public infrastructure and compromise environmental standards.

LAWMA said roadside trading contributes to poor environmental conditions by encouraging the accumulation of refuse in unauthorised locations and creating obstructions for pedestrians and motorists.

The agency urged residents to patronise only traders operating from approved markets and designated commercial spaces, warning that buying from illegal roadside vendors encourages the continued occupation of public spaces.

The authority also called on traders to desist from using roads, walkways, medians and other restricted areas for commercial activities.

LAWMA has in recent years intensified enforcement against indiscriminate waste disposal and other practices considered harmful to Lagos’ environmental cleanliness.

The latest directive forms part of the agency’s broader efforts to improve sanitation, protect public infrastructure and maintain cleaner and safer communities across the state.

Residents are therefore advised to comply with environmental regulations and avoid activities that could expose them to arrest or prosecution during the enforcement exercise.

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