The Lagos State Government, through its Anti-Open Defecation Squad, has apprehended 46 male and female offenders during coordinated early morning operations across Lagos Island.

The Managing Director/CEO of the Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin, said the arrests were made between February 20 and 22, 2026, during routine monitoring exercises around Ebute Ero and adjoining areas, including Apongbon, Isale Eko, Marina, CMS, Obalende and Adeniji Adele.

He said: “On February 20, 20 offenders were apprehended; 15 additional suspects were arrested on February 21; while 11 more were picked up on February 22 during sustained surveillance operations targeting habitual open defecation blackspots.”

According to him, all suspects have been transferred to the headquarters of the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps in Oshodi for further investigation and prosecution in accordance with the environmental laws of Lagos State.

Gbadegesin said the enforcement exercise is part of ongoing efforts by the State Government to eliminate open defecation, protect public health and maintain environmental sanitation standards across the metropolis.

He reiterated that open defecation constitutes a violation of environmental regulations and poses serious health and environmental risks, particularly in densely populated commercial corridors.

He urged residents and business operators to make use of approved public sanitation facilities and refrain from acts that undermine the state’s environmental sustainability drive.

While reaffirming the government’s commitment to sustained monitoring and enforcement operations, he warned that offenders would continue to face arrest and prosecution under the law.