Residents of Apapa Iganmu Local Council Development Area (LCDA) turned out in large numbers on Saturday to participate in the monthly environmental sanitation exercise following the strict enforcement measures introduced by the Chairman, Hon. Jimoh Olawale Saliu.
The exercise witnessed widespread compliance across the council area, while several defaulters, mostly non-residents attempting to transit through the LCDA during the sanitation hours, had their movement restricted after the chairman ordered the temporary closure of roads until the exercise ended at 8:30 a.m.
At the Ijora 7UP Market, which had earlier been shut on the Chairman’s directive over poor sanitary conditions, traders were seen clearing drainage channels, evacuating refuse and properly bagging waste for disposal.
Hon. Saliu also ordered the closure of adjoining shops opposite the market and directed the market leadership to engage street sweepers for routine cleaning to maintain a healthier environment.
At Adeleye Fruit Market in Sari Iganmu, traders participated actively in the sanitation exercise, removing accumulated waste and cleaning their surroundings.
During an inspection at New Road Junction, the Chairman commended the presence of street sweepers already carrying out their duties but cautioned tricycle operators in the area to take greater responsibility for maintaining environmental cleanliness or face government sanctions.
To strengthen grassroots participation, Hon. Saliu directed all councillors and political appointees to lead residents in their respective wards throughout the sanitation exercise.
The Apapa-Iganmu Chairman also inspected the ongoing desilting of the system four canal at the Obaale Bridge axis, reaffirming the council’s commitment to completing the clearance to improve drainage and reduce the risk of flooding.
Addressing sanitation defaulters at the council secretariat after the exercise, Hon. Saliu warned against future violations of government sanitation directives.
He stated that anyone apprehended for non-compliance in subsequent exercises would be handed over to the Lagos State Taskforce for prosecution.
The council maintained that consistent environmental sanitation remains a key priority in promoting public health, ensuring cleaner communities and enhancing the overall quality of life for residents.
