LASG yet to reintroduce monthly environmental exercise – Hon. Shabi

LASG yet to reintroduce monthly environmental exercise – Hon. Shabi

A member of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Adebola Shabi, has refuted claims that the state has reintroduced the monthly Environmental Sanitation Exercise.

This statement contradicts the position of the state Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, who was quoted as saying that Governor Sanwo-Olu and the State Executive Council have approved the reintroduction of the monthly exercise. Wahab added that the exercise, expected to commence at the end of July, would soon be announced publicly by the governor.

It is worth recalling that in 2016, a Federal High Court in Lagos nullified the monthly environmental sanitation policy following a suit filed by Lagos-based human rights lawyer, Mr. Ebun Olu-Adegboruwa. He challenged the government’s decision to restrict human and vehicular movement during the exercise, arguing that it violated fundamental human rights.

Hon. Adebola Shabi emphasized that to ensure a cleaner and healthier environment, residents must uphold high hygienic standards while the government enforces environmental laws. Shabi, the Chairman of the House Committee on Environment, noted that the Ministry of Environment and Local Government Areas need to synergize and be proactive in addressing environmental issues.

He stressed the importance of clearing drainage channels and canals proactively, rather than waiting for the rainy season when such efforts would be less effective.

Hon. Shabi lamented the inefficacy of the regular inspections by local environmental officials, known as “Wole Wole,” and called for them to be empowered to function optimally. He also urged continued inspections by LASBCA officials at construction sites across the metropolis, with sanctions for those blocking drainage channels with building materials, thus preventing the free flow of water.

Regarding the recent flooding in parts of the state, the former head of LASEPA attributed it to climate change and lawlessness on the part of citizens.