Lagos to Arrest Buyers Patronizing Illegal Roadside Traders

Lagos State authorities are set to begin arresting and prosecuting individuals who patronize traders operating in unauthorized public spaces, starting next week. The announcement, made by the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), extends enforcement beyond roadside vendors to include their customers. LAWMA Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, stated on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, that the measure is part of a renewed strategy to combat illegal trading, indiscriminate waste disposal, and the obstruction of public infrastructure. The enforcement action is pursuant to Section 151(2) of the Lagos State Environmental Management and Protection Law 2017. Gbadegesin explained that the expanded enforcement is a response to the persistent return of roadside trading activities after previous clearance operations, which he attributed to continued buyer patronage. "Traders occupy public spaces because people continue to patronise them," he said, emphasizing that buyers sustain the illegal practice and are therefore accountable under the law.