The Lagos State government has arrested 46 persons for open defecation during enforcement operations on Lagos Island.
Muyiwa Gbadegesin, managing director of LAWMA disclosed that the arrests were carried out by the Anti-Open Defecation Squad between February 20 and 22.
According to Gbadegesin, 20 offenders were apprehended on February 20, 15 on February 21, and 11 on February 22 during monitoring exercises around Ebute Ero, Marina, CMS, Obalende and Adeniji Adele.
He stated that the suspects have been transferred to the Lagos state environmental sanitation corps headquarters in Oshodi for investigation and prosecution in line with environmental laws.
Gbadegesin explained that the operation forms part of efforts to eliminate open defecation, protect public health and maintain sanitation standards across the state.
He warned that open defecation violates environmental regulations and poses serious health risks, especially in densely populated commercial areas.
The government urged residents and business operators to make use of approved public toilets and avoid actions that undermine environmental sustainability.
Authorities reaffirmed their commitment to sustained surveillance, warning that violators would continue to face arrest and prosecution.
