APM Condemns Growing Waste Management Challenges Across Lagos

…As Opposition party faults waste evacuation services despite residents’ tax payments

…Warns that growing waste dumps pose risks to public health and sustainability

The Lagos State chapter of the Allied People’s Movement (APM) has expressed concern over what it described as the worsening waste management crisis across the state, calling on the government to take urgent steps to address the situation.

In a statement signed by its Publicity Secretary, Kazeem Ayodele, the party said heaps of refuse have become common sights in several parts of Lagos, posing serious threats to public health, environmental sustainability, and the overall quality of life of residents.

According to the party, communities such as Ojota, Igando, Mushin, Idi-Araba, Okokomaiko, Alaba Rago, Agege, and other areas continue to struggle with overflowing waste dumps, offensive odours, and unhealthy environmental conditions.

The APM noted that the Olusosun and Solous landfills remain major sources of concern due to their environmental impact.

The party further lamented that despite residents’ compliance with waste management levies and tax obligations, waste evacuation services remain inadequate in many areas. It described the situation as unacceptable, noting that refuse often remains unattended for weeks and, in some cases, months.

The APM also highlighted the increasing presence of refuse on road medians and public spaces, warning that the development not only affects the aesthetic appeal of the state but also creates breeding grounds for disease-causing organisms and increases environmental pollution.

The party expressed concern over the condition of waste evacuation trucks operating across Lagos, stating that frequent breakdowns contribute to traffic congestion while waste spillages and offensive odours from poorly maintained vehicles cause hardship for commuters and nearby residents.

The opposition party attributed the challenges to what it called poor planning, inadequate supervision, and insufficient investment in modern waste management infrastructure.

It urged the Lagos State Government to immediately clear refuse blackspots, modernize landfill operations, enforce maintenance standards for waste trucks, invest in recycling and waste-to-energy projects, strengthen monitoring mechanisms, and develop a comprehensive long-term waste management strategy.

The APM stressed that Lagosians deserve a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable environment.