The Lagos State Government has secured the conviction of Makinde Rasaq before the Special Offenses (Mobile Court) sitting at Bolade, Oshodi, for multiple environmental offences, contrary to the provisions of the Lagos State Environmental Management and Protection Law, 2017, and other applicable laws.
The defendant, Makinde Rasaq (48), was arraigned and convicted on seven counts; bordering on conduct likely to cause a breach of public peace; indiscriminate dumping and disposal of refuse at unauthorised locations including roads, sidewalks, streets, and vacant lands; failure to patronise an approved Private Sector Participation (PSP) waste operator; managing and transporting waste in a manner detrimental to the environment; operating waste collection, transportation, and disposal services without a valid licence; and obstructing authorised government officials in the lawful execution of their duties, all contrary to the relevant provisions of the Lagos State Environmental Management and Protection Law, 2017.
The defendant was found guilty on seven (7) counts, with the court handing down the following sentences:
Count 1: One (1) month community service or one (1) month at a correctional centre.
Count 2: Two (2) months community service or three (3) months at a correctional centre.
Count 3: Two (2) months community service or three (3) months at a correctional centre.
Count 4: Two (2) months community service or three (3) months at a correctional centre.
Count 5: Two (2) months community service or three (3) months at a correctional centre.
Count 6: Three (3) months community service or two (2) months at a correctional centre.
Count 7: Two (2) months of community service or three (3) months at a correctional centre.
The court ordered that all sentences shall run consecutively, subject to the option exercised by the convict.
The prosecution was led by Olufemi Adekunle, appearing with Oluwabusola Omotunde, on behalf of the State.
In delivering his judgment, the Presiding Magistrate, Justice F.J Adefioye, warned that environmental offences pose serious risks to public health and safety, stressing that the courts will continue to support government efforts to curb indiscriminate waste disposal and illegal waste operations.
The Lagos State Government reiterates its zero tolerance for environmental degradation, illegal waste disposal, unlicensed waste activities, and obstruction of environmental enforcement officers.
Residents and business operators are advised to patronise only approved PSP operators and comply fully with all environmental regulations to avoid sanctions.
