Ogbeni Jubril Odulate, the executive chairman of Sagamu Local Government, has pledged to stop the town from becoming a dumping ground for waste originating from neighbouring states. He made the commitment on Monday while inspecting an illegal waste disposal site in the Sotubo area of the local government.
Residents had contacted Odulate with video evidence showing trucks from Lagos Waste Management Authority dumping Lagos-generated waste at the Sotubo location. The illegal dumping has sparked serious environmental damage and poses risks to residents and motorists, he noted.
Odulate stressed that his administration remains dedicated to protecting public health and safety. He warned that no person, contractor or organisation can establish a waste disposal site without government approval.
"Our swift intervention was necessary to verify the reports, access the situation and ensure that the health, safety and environmental wellbeing of our people are not compromised," he said.
The chairman described the action as a flagrant violation of environmental laws and regulatory standards. He promised that his council would not tolerate any activities threatening residents' wellbeing.
Community members Folorunso Awosanya and Falilat Adekunle praised the local government boss for his rapid response. They explained that the illegal dumping had created foul smells, contamination and health risks for schoolchildren, residents and those using the road.
The offensive odour from the site had become unbearable for the surrounding neighbourhood, they told reporters. The two residents expressed gratitude for the intervention and hoped it would end the environmental hazard.
Odulate's inspection team examined the extent of the dumping and documented evidence of the violations. The council has signalled its determination to prosecute those responsible and prevent future illegal dumping activities in Sagamu.
