Lagos refuse crisis worsens as trash overruns communities

The waste management crisis in Lagos State appears to be worsening, with heaps of refuse growing larger across several communities as the Lagos State Waste Management Authority struggles to sustain waste evacuation efforts. Weeks after residents and business owners raised concerns over uncollected waste, fresh observations by PUNCH Metro revealed that refuse dumps have expanded in parts of Oshodi, Isolo, Ajao Estate, Ilasamaja, Mushin, Idi Araba and Alimosho.When PUNCH Metro revisited parts of Oshodi on Saturday, fresh waste was seen being added daily to existing heaps along major roads and residential streets, with some locations gradually turning into what residents described as “mini dumpsites.” At the entrance of Yusuf Street, large piles of refuse were seen blocking part of the frontage of a residential building, while similar scenes played out on adjoining streets. An occupant of the building, who identified herself simply as Kemi, lamented that the situation had deteriorated despite previous complaints and media attention. She said, “When you first came here, we thought something would be done. Instead, the refuse has increased. People keep dumping waste because there is nowhere else to take it. What you are seeing now is worse than before.” Another resident, Korede Salau, warned that the growing heaps posed serious health risks to residents. He said, “The smell is stronger now, and when it rains, dirty water from the refuse flows into the streets. Flies, mosquitoes and rodents are everywhere.” The monthly environmental sanitation, which coincided with the visit, appeared to offer little relief, as residents complained that waste generated during previous clean-up exercises remained uncollected. A trader, Biola, said the situation had begun to affect businesses in the area. She said, “Once we clear the drains and gather the waste, the rain washes it back because the PSP operators don’t come to evacuate it. Some customers see the refuse and turn back.” Residents also expressed fears that the mounting waste could worsen flooding as the rainy season intensifies, noting that several drainage channels are already partially blocked. Related News Obasanjo urges regular health screening to tackle cancer Ekiti reaffirms commitment to end FGM, gender violence Lagos, police deploy aerial surveillance to boost security Another resident, Wasiu Adeoye, warned, “Once the rains become heavier, these drains will be completely blocked, and we will suffer the consequences.” Private Sector Participants had earlier attributed the worsening crisis to difficulties acces