The Lagos Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC) has intensified its war on environmental pollution with the seizure of banned styrofoam food packs and single-use plastics worth ₦2.5 million during a large-scale enforcement operation across major markets and shopping malls.
The operation, disclosed on Tuesday by the Corps Marshal, Major Olaniyi Olatunbosun, underscores the Lagos State Government’s renewed commitment to enforcing the prohibition on harmful plastic materials.
According to Olatunbosun, the ban—originally focused on styrofoam—has now been extended to cover single-use plastics in line with the Ministry of Environment’s directive.
“Intelligence reports revealed that despite repeated warnings, some traders continued to flout government orders,” he explained. “This prompted targeted enforcement in Agege, Oshodi, Idumota, Mushin, Victoria Island, and Lekki, where the seizures were made.”
The Corps Marshal highlighted the grave dangers of plastic waste, especially in Lagos’ coastal communities, noting that the July 1 enforcement deadline was aimed at safeguarding public health and protecting the environment.
“Plastic waste poses serious threats to our environment and public health. Styrofoam and single-use plastics are non-biodegradable, have no recycling value, and cause long-term damage,” Olatunbosun stated.
He clarified that the ban covers plastic straws, cutlery, carrier bags below 40 microns, polystyrene cups, and styrofoam containers, stressing that misinformation about the policy would not weaken enforcement.
Olatunbosun further cautioned traders against displaying wares on road setbacks, medians, verges, gutter slabs, and lay-bys, insisting such practices are illegal under Lagos State environmental laws.
In his closing remarks, he also appealed to pedestrians to use designated footbridges for safety and urged residents to stop indiscriminate waste disposal, open urination, and defecation, which worsen flooding and health hazards.
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