The Lagos State government has taken action to protect public health by closing the Orchid Shopping Centre in the Eti-Osa area. This decision was made after the shopping centre was found to be improperly disposing of wastewater onto the road and public drains. Such actions can create serious environmental issues and pose risks to the health of the community.

The statement read, “The Lagos State Wastewater Management Office (LSWMO) today, Friday, September 27, 2024 sealed off Orchid Shopping Centre’s premises located along Orchid Road, Eti-Osa, for discharging wastewater unto the road and public drains thereby creating environmental nuisance and endangering public health.”

Tokunbo Wahab, the state Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, announced the closure in a statement on the X platform. The Wastewater Management Office highlighted that this closure is part of a broader effort to ensure businesses follow safe practices. They also warned that other businesses in Lagos could face heavy penalties if they do not comply with health and environmental regulations.

The government is committed to maintaining a safe environment for all residents. This move is a reminder that businesses must operate responsibly to avoid harming public health and the environment.

“The agency advices all persons or organisations in the habit of discharging untreated wastewater and sewage into the environment to desist or face sanctions.

The necessary sanctions will be served to the property, the owner(s), and occupiers in line with the provisions of the Lagos State Environmental Management and Protection Law, 2017.

“The Lagos State Government reiterates that the State has zero tolerance for environmental pollution and degradation,” the statement added.