Residents in Ikorodu, Agric, Irawo, and environs have lamented the near absence of Private Sector Participation (PSP) operators licenced by Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) to remove waste.
 
According to them, their poor operation has resulted in the emergence of dumpsites on the streets. Apart from the numerous heaps of waste dotting major junctions, streets and public places, a large number of drainages have been clogged with refuse, thereby putting the health conditions of both residents and motorists at risk.
 
Speaking on the situation, a resident of 15, Babs Oku-Badejo Street, Irawo, Chris Ogum, expressed dismay over poor services of LAWMA and PSP operators in Irawo.
 
He said: “I can’t even remember the last time waste collectors came to my area. What most people do is to pay pushcarts to dispose off their refuse.”
   
Another resident, who sells food stuffs on 12 Bolfas Street, Benson Bus stop, Ikorodu, lamented that the inefficiency of LAWMA agents made traders in that area dispose their refuse improperly, resulting in the entire area looking unkempt. She added: “Lack of waste collectors is affecting us largely. This has prompted traders to dispose of their refuse anywhere.
 
“Most traders had even resorted to unsanitary means of disposal by dumping their refuse at strategic positions.” She called on the state government through its relevant waste agency to come to their rescue, adding that the effects of improper waste management are unbearable.
  
But, a resident along Ayangburen road, Ojubode, Ikorodu, Mary Njoku, expressed gratitude to LAWMA for providing waste bins around the area.   She said: “LAWMA operators don’t get to our street, but there’s a large bin a few streets away where we dispose of our waste and the LAWMA operators will empty it.”
 
Reacting, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, said contrary to reports, PSPs activities have remined unwanning around Isawo and Agric areas. He, however, noted that the ongoing road construction along Isawo Road has affected the efficiency of PSP operators within the area. 

 According to him, this has resulted in the prevalence of litters around Agric bus stop, while residents around arterial roads not affected by the road construction have been enjoying good services from the PSP operator.