LAWMA warns Lagos residents against buying from illegal street traders

The Lagos Waste Management Authority has warned residents that people who buy goods from traders operating illegally on roads, medians, walkways, setbacks and other unauthorised public spaces could face arrest and prosecution.

LAWMA Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin, said the measure forms part of renewed enforcement efforts aimed at tackling illegal street trading, indiscriminate waste disposal and obstruction of public infrastructure across Lagos.

Gbadegesin explained that enforcement would no longer focus solely on street traders, as customers who patronise traders operating in prohibited locations could also be held accountable.

According to LAWMA, the Lagos State Environmental Management and Protection Law 2017 prohibits both illegal street trading and the purchase of goods offered for sale in prohibited public spaces.

The authority said enforcement against both traders and buyers would begin as part of its wider campaign to restore order and improve environmental conditions across the state.

LAWMA said individuals found purchasing goods from traders on roadsides, medians, walkways, setbacks and other unauthorised areas could be arrested alongside the traders and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

The authority said a person convicted of the offence could face a fine of up to N90,000, six months’ imprisonment, or both.

LAWMA has repeatedly linked illegal roadside trading with waste-management problems, obstruction of public infrastructure and environmental degradation.

The agency urged Lagos residents to use approved markets and trading locations and cooperate with ongoing efforts to keep roads, walkways and other public spaces clear.