FUNSHO AROGUNDADE
The Lagos State Government has clarified that its recent engagement with transport unions across the State is not intended to replace the statutory responsibilities of the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps, LAGESC.
In a statement signed by Hon. Tokunbo Wahab, the State Commissioner For Environment and Water Resources, the State Government said the mandate of LAGESC, in collaboration with the Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences Task Force, remains as the duly empowered environmental enforcement arm of the Lagos State Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources.
According to the Commissioner, the clarification follows misinformation being circulated by some bloggers and commentators suggesting a change in enforcement responsibilities.
While explaining the purpose of the engagement with transport unions, Wahab said that the State Government noted that several environmental challenges persist within parks, garages, and the public transportation ecosystem.
These include illegal trading activities and indiscriminate disposal of refuse on road medians and within transport facilities.
He disclosed that the government’s engagement with transport unions is aimed at fostering collaboration, promoting shared responsibility, and ensuring improved cleanliness and proper waste management within their respective parks and garages.
The government stated that the partnership does not diminish, transfer, or replace the enforcement responsibilities of LAGESC and the Task Force.
“Instead, it is a complementary initiative designed to strengthen environmental compliance, sanitation standards, and stakeholder participation in maintaining a cleaner environment across the State.” Wahab said.
The Commissioner then assured Lagosians of government’s readiness to ensure a cleaner Lagos.
“We therefore wish to reassure all Lagosians that environmental cleanliness remains a top priority of the Lagos State Government. We will continue to engage relevant stakeholders and partners in our collective effort to build a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable Lagos,” Wahab said.
