LAWMA Warns Lagos Residents: Buying From Roadside Traders Could Land You in Court

(Roadside Traders. Photo by Vanguard News)

The Lagos Waste Management Authority has warned residents against buying from traders operating illegally on roadsides, medians and walkways.

Managing Director Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin announced this on Tuesday and said enforcement will start next week.

The move is part of a fresh strategy to stop illegal trading, careless waste dumping and blocking of public spaces across Lagos.

Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin said enforcement will not only target traders but also residents who buy from them.

The law makes it an offence to buy goods sold in prohibited places.

From next week, anyone caught buying from traders on roadsides, medians, walkways or other unauthorised spaces will be arrested alongside the traders and taken to court.

People convicted face a fine of 90,000 naira, six months in jail or both.

Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin explained that illegal roadside trading creates waste that ends up blocking drains, worsening traffic and creating health problems.

The goal is to break the cycle that keeps illegal trading and waste dumping alive after enforcement operations.

Traders occupy public spaces because people keep buying from them.

Buyers need to understand that their actions support the problem and they are also responsible under the law.

LAWMA will also improve waste collection in streets and communities near places where illegal dumping used to happen.

The authority will address service gaps and deal with anyone caught deliberately dumping waste or using illegal markets.

Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin urged residents and businesses to use recognised markets and approved waste collection channels.

He said personal convenience should not come before public health, cleanliness, road safety and proper use of shared spaces.

LAWMA remains committed to continued enforcement, working with stakeholders and improving waste collection to eliminate open dumping and create a cleaner Lagos.