The Lagos State Wastewater Management Office (LSWMO) has sealed off the Orchid Shopping Centre in Eti-Osa Local Government Area due to health and environmental concerns. According to a statement released on Friday by the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, the facility was shut down after being found discharging untreated wastewater into public drains and roads, creating an environmental nuisance that posed a serious threat to public health.
The enforcement action, carried out by LSWMO officials, is part of the state government’s broader efforts to maintain environmental safety and enforce compliance with public health standards. The commissioner emphasized that the state has zero tolerance for any practices that contribute to environmental pollution and degrade public health standards.
“The Lagos State Wastewater Management Office today sealed off the Orchid Shopping Centre’s premises located along Orchid Road, Eti-Osa, for discharging wastewater onto the road and public drains, thereby creating an environmental nuisance and endangering public health,” Wahab stated.
The commissioner reiterated that such violations are punishable under the Lagos State Environmental Management and Protection Law of 2017. He warned that sanctions would be imposed on all businesses found engaging in similar practices, advising property owners and occupants to comply with the state’s environmental regulations to avoid penalties.
The statement further highlighted the Lagos State Government’s commitment to ensuring a cleaner, healthier environment for its residents and urged businesses across the state to uphold the required standards in waste management.
The closure of Orchid Shopping Centre serves as a stern warning to other establishments operating outside the stipulated environmental guidelines. The state government has pledged to continue monitoring and taking necessary actions against any entities that threaten the health and safety of Lagosians through harmful environmental practices.
