Dare Babalola
The Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, has expressed concern over rising environmental violations in Ikeja GRA, warning that the government will enforce existing laws to restore order in the upscale neighbourhood.
Wahab disclosed this on Monday following a meeting with executives of the Ikeja GRA Residents Association, led by Muiz Banire, at the state secretariat in Alausa.
According to the commissioner, the engagement focused on the increasing rate of environmental infractions threatening the integrity of the estate and the need for urgent intervention.
“During our engagement, I expressed concern about the alarming rate at which this highbrow residential area is being defaced through street trading, noise pollution, abandoned buildings, poor waste management, and the indiscriminate conversion of residential properties to commercial use,” Wahab said.
He noted that such practices not only degrade the environment but also pose significant security risks if left unchecked.
“These infractions pose serious environmental and security risks that must be addressed decisively,” he added.
The commissioner stressed that Lagos environmental laws—particularly those governing waste management, noise control, and adherence to approved master plans—remain in force and will be strictly implemented.
“I made it clear that Lagos State Environmental Laws on waste management, noise pollution, and compliance with approved master plans must be strictly adhered to. Laws only serve their purpose when they are enforced. If we fail to enforce existing regulations, then we undermine the very foundation of environmental governance,” Wahab stated.
In his response, Banire assured the state government of the association’s readiness to collaborate with authorities in ensuring compliance and improving environmental standards within the estate.
Also present at the meeting were senior officials of the ministry, including the Permanent Secretary, Office of Environmental Services, Gaji Omobolaji Tajudeen, and the Permanent Secretary, Office of Drainage Services, Engr. Mahamood Adegbite, alongside other directors.
