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🇳🇬 Nigeria /Environment & Climate

Lagos clears refuse in Oshodi after PUNCH report

From The Punch · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Outcome reported
  • Lagos Waste Management Authority cleared refuse in Oshodi after a PUNCH Metro report highlighted resident complaints.
  • Trucks and containers were deployed, significantly reducing the heaps of refuse and offensive odors.
  • Traders and residents commended the agency's response, noting improvements in the environment and traffic flow.

Following a PUNCH Metro report detailing heaps of refuse and the resulting stench in Oshodi, the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has commenced a cleanup operation. Residents and traders had expressed concerns over health risks and the persistent foul odor.

They packed the refuse in front of my shop this morning. I think they are waiting for another truck to remove the remaining heap. Because it is the rainy season, they don’t have anywhere to keep the waste.

— AdeoyeA trader at Oshodi Market describing the ongoing refuse evacuation.

During a follow-up visit, LAWMA trucks and waste containers were observed at the Oshodi Bus Terminal corridor. Much of the refuse had been cleared, leading to improved vehicular movement and a reduction in the offensive smell. A small portion of waste remained, but the situation had significantly improved.

They have been here. Thank God. They removed one large heap this morning (Thursday), and they are still trying. You can even see one of their trucks here. Before tomorrow, I believe they will remove another heap.

— TobeA resident expressing optimism about the completion of the refuse clearance.

Traders at Oshodi Market confirmed the evacuation exercise, with officials working from Tuesday night into Thursday morning. Adeoye, a trader, noted that officials were still working to remove the remaining waste, attributing potential delays to the rainy season and the need for more trucks. Another resident, Tobe, expressed optimism that the remaining refuse would be cleared soon, commending the agency's efforts.

They have started packing the refuse. They came yesterday, and I saw one of their trucks when I opened my shop. We want to thank LAWMA for the good job. At least it is much better now. Last week was terrible. I just hope they continue coming so the place remains clean.

— Mr AyeniA trader appreciating LAWMA's response and the improved environment.

Mr. Ayeni, a trader, appreciated LAWMA's response, stating the environment was considerably better than the previous week. Okechukwu mentioned that heavy-duty equipment, including a caterpillar, had been deployed since Tuesday, with trucks already filled and departed. He believes the complaints prompted a quick response from the agency.

One of the caterpillars is working over there, and it’s been here since Tuesday. One of their trucks was filled and left. I believe they will continue working till evening and finish up today. Maybe the complaints they received made them respond quickly.

— OkechukwuA resident detailing the use of heavy-duty equipment and the ongoing nature of the cleanup.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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