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Lagos Moves to Enforce Stricter Laws Against Open Defecation

Published

1 month ago

Feb 11, 2025.

Lagos lawmakers demand stricter action on open defecation.
They call for free public toilets and tougher sanitation laws.
The Assembly urges public awareness and better enforcement.

The Lagos State House of Assembly has urged the Ministry of Environment and Water Resources to enforce environmental laws against open defecation and provide free public toilets across the state.

During a recent plenary session, lawmakers commended the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, for his efforts in maintaining a cleaner Lagos.

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However, they emphasized the need for stricter measures against open defecation, which they described as a public health hazard and a threat to economic growth.

Public Health and Awareness Campaigns

Raising the issue as a “Matter of Urgent Public Importance,” Stephen Ogundipe (Oshodi-Isolo 1) warned that open defecation tarnishes Lagos’ reputation and hampers sustainable development.

He stressed that it poses a direct threat to public health and urged the state to involve all stakeholders in tackling the issue.

The lawmakers also called for an extensive awareness campaign to educate residents on the dangers of open defecation. They urged the Ministry of Information to sensitize the public, particularly in high-traffic areas such as motor parks.

Addressing Homelessness and Sanitation

Bonu Solomon (Badagry 1) suggested that destitute individuals on the streets be arrested, arguing that they contribute to the sanitation crisis.

He urged local government chairmen to support state efforts in maintaining cleanliness.

Aro Moshood (Ikorodu 2) pointed out that many riverine areas are used for open defecation, and open refuse is taking over Lagos streets.

He criticized marketers and coordinators at Mile 12 Market for failing to maintain cleanliness and called on the Ministry of Environment to impose sanctions on those who neglect their responsibilities.

Contaminated Water and Infrastructure Development

Rasheed Adebola (Lagos Mainland 2) highlighted the dangers of open defecation, warning that most boreholes in Lagos are contaminated.

Orekoya Abimbola (Somolu 1) called for the government to develop a policy framework to address the issue, while Femi Saheed (Kosofe 2) urged the House to summon the commissioner for environment to explain why open defecation is increasing.

Saheed also recommended clear policies on managing public sanitation facilities and appointing responsible bodies to oversee public toilets in the state.

Local Government Responsibility

Okanlawon Sanni (Kosofe 1) proposed that local governments should sponsor free public toilets in their respective areas, a motion supported by Gbolahan Yishawu (Eti-Osa 1), who suggested the introduction of affordable public toilets.

Deputy Speaker Fatai Mojeed (Ibeju Lekki 1) agreed, stating that local governments must prioritize public sanitation.