The educational arm of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) Academy has sensitised over 4,258 pupils of various public schools across the state, since its school enlightenment and advocacy programme began last month.
This was disclosed by LAWMA’s Managing Director of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, following the visitation of the school advocacy team to schools at Eti-Osa.
Represented by the director, LAWMA Academy, Training and Development, Mrs. Bola Adewunmi, the LAWMA boss noted that the initiative was aimed at imparting waste management education in children for environmental sustainability.
He said further that the agency had utilised interactive sessions, educational materials, and engaging activities to educate pupils on waste segregation, recycling, composting, and the importance of keeping their environment clean.
He said: “Equipping young minds with the knowledge and skills to champion environmental sustainability is crucial. Through LAWMA Academy, we are engaging future generations to actively participate in responsible waste management, fostering positive change within their communities.
“Incorporating environmental education into school curricula is vital. LAWMA Academy’s program provides valuable resources and fosters a sense of responsibility among students, making them active contributors to a cleaner and healthier Lagos.”
The LAWMA Academy is an initiative of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) dedicated to promoting environmental awareness and education, among the younger generation to become active participants in responsible waste management, for a cleaner and healthier Lagos city.
The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of LAWMA, Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin, confirmed this in a statement on Tuesday in Lagos.
Gbadegesin said that the partnership was aimed at tackling a myriad of waste management and environmental challenges within and across the state.
He noted that LAWMA remained committed to ensuring proper waste management practices, within and outside Lagos State.
Gbadegesin added that Lagos was willing to support or partner other states in any area of waste management.
“I am happy to announce the partnership between LAWMA and Ekiti State Government, which will see us fabricate their waste bins at a reasonable cost.
“By fabricating waste bins in-house, we gain greater control over quality, production speed, and ultimately, cost-effectiveness.
“This allows us to not only ensure a steady supply of bins for Lagos, but also help us to extend our support to other states like Ekiti, which is currently a prime beneficiary of this initiative.
“LAWMA has assisted some states before now and we are willing to do more,” Gbadegesin said.
“The partnership with Ekiti State shows LAWMA’s proactive approach to environmental issues,” he said.
He added that the Ekiti project woulf serve as a pilot programme, paving the way for similar partnerships with other states.
“We believe that effective waste management is not just a Lagos issue, but a national concern.
“LAWMA’s door is open to any state seeking our assistance.
“We are offering our expertise to provide technical support, training, and even manpower, to help other states develop and implement efficient waste management systems,” Gbadegesin said.
Gbadegesin noted that LAWMA’s Engineering Department, known for its ingenuity and resourcefulness, had developed a robust and efficient waste bin fabrication process that utilised locally sourced materials to produce durable bins, for diverse waste management needs.
“LAWMA’s in-house bin fabrication initiative offers several advantages beyond cost-effectiveness and quality control.
“It fosters skill development and job creation within the agency, promotes local content utilisation, and reduces reliance on foreign imports.
“Hence, other states who are interested can get the bins at affordable rates,” Gbadegesin added. (NAN)
Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) and Lagos Office of Climate Change and Circular Economy (OCCE) have revealed plans to institutionalise circular economy and advocacy as veritable strategies to subdue the rising threat of climate change on the state.
The group said climate change poses challenge to the people and economy of Lagos State.
According to the Lagos State Climate Action Plan 2020-2025, more than half of Lagos’ 21 million residents live in informal settlements, which renders them vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.
Lagos State Adaptation and Resilience Plan (LCARP) estimates the effects of climate inaction at $22-29 billion, 11 times the state’s 2022 annual budget.
Speaking during a meeting between teams LAWMA and OCCE, the Managing Director of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, said circularity is one of the sustainable ways of addressing the increasing impact of climate change on the environment and the economy of the state.
He said climate change is scientific, so all stakeholders must continue to seek ways to simplify it, noting that because of its hands-on nature, the circular economy is one of those ways of simplification. Gbadegesin stressed that LAWMA programmes are to increase awareness and education.
He welcomed the collaboration from OCCE, saying it would accelerate the required behavioural changes in the state.
Also speaking at the event, the Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Climate Change and Circular Economy, Mrs Titi Oshodi, thanked the LAWMA team for the warm reception and open arms of collaboration.
She said the goal of OCCE was to ensure that it continued to enable and collaborate with players in the climate and circular economy ecosystem to achieve the governor’s vision of a zero-carbon Lagos by 2050.
She said: “The threat that climate change poses to all of us is a testament that no one person or institution can solve the problem.
“If it threatens us all, we must work together to tackle it. And this visit is in the spirit of driving a collective front to face a common challenge”.
“Three sectors are the highest emitters of greenhouse gas in Lagos. Energy, waste and transportation are the sectors. So, we plan to work with all stakeholders within the sectors to drive advocacy and explore the economic opportunities within the space.
“So, our visit here today at LAWMA is in furtherance of our goal and conviction that collaboration is what we need and circularity can be our tool to turn the tide and explore the threat of climate change to create more jobs and increase the wealth and well-being of the people of the state.
“We’re glad and grateful to the team, led by the visionary, Dr. Gbadegesin, for the audience and commitment to partner with us.
“If we have to address the issue of climate change and the threat it poses on us, solid waste is fundamental. And we’re extremely excited about the nods we have from the leadership of LAWMA today,” Oshodi said.
The Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) and the Lagos Office of Climate Change and Circular Economy (OCCE) have revealed plans to institutionalise circular economy and advocacy as veritable strategies to subdue the rising threat of climate change on the state.
The group said climate change poses a severe challenge to the people and economy of Lagos state.
According to the Lagos State Climate Action Plan 2020 – 2025, more than half of Lagos’ 21 million residents live in informal settlements, which renders them highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.
The Lagos State Adaptation and Resilience Plan (LCARP) estimates the effects of climate inaction at $22-29 billion, 11 times the state’s 2022 annual budget.
Speaking during a meeting between teams LAWMA and OCCE, the Managing Director of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, said that circularity is one of the sustainable ways of addressing the increasing impact of climate change on the environment and the economy of the state.
He explained that climate change is scientific, so all stakeholders must continue to seek ways to simplify it, noting that because of its hands-on nature, the Circular Economy is one of those ways of simplification.
Gbadegesin stressed that LAWMA programmes are to increase awareness and education.
He welcomed the collaboration from OCCE, saying that it would accelerate the required behavioural changes in the state.
Also speaking at the event, the Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Climate Change and Circular Economy, Mrs Titi Oshodi, thanked the LAWMA team for the warm reception and open arms of collaboration.
She said the goal of OCCE is to ensure that it continues to enable and collaborate with players in the climate and circular economy ecosystem to achieve the Governor’s vision of a zero-carbon Lagos by 2050.
She commented: “The threat that climate change poses to all of us is a testament that no one person or institution can solve the problem.
If it threatens us all, we must work together to tackle it. And this visit is in the spirit of driving a collective front to face a common challenge.
“Three sectors are the highest emitters of greenhouse gas in Lagos. Energy, waste, and transportation are the sectors. So, we plan to work with all stakeholders within the sectors to drive advocacy and explore the economic opportunities within the space”.
“So, our visit here today at LAWMA is in furtherance of our goal and conviction that collaboration is what we need and circularity can be our tool to turn the tide and explore the threat of climate change to create more jobs and increase the wealth and well-being of the people of the state
“And we’re glad and grateful to the team, led by the visionary Dr. Gbadegesin, for the audience and commitment to partner with us.
“If we have to address the issue of climate change and the threat it poses on us, solid waste is fundamental. And we’re extremely excited about the nods we have from the leadership of LAWMA today.”
With a shared vision and aligned commitment towards circular economy and environmental sustainability, both teams look forward to fostering a collaborative workforce.
The Managing Director/CEO of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, who made this known in a statement yesterday in Lagos, said it was in appreciation of their critical role of keeping Lagos clean.
He said the hard-working heroes and heroines of Lagos waste management system appreciated the gesture by the governor.
“Governor Sanwo-Olu acknowledges the efforts of our street sweepers and waste handlers in maintaining a clean and healthy environment for Lagosians.
“This bonus is a gesture of gratitude for their dedication and commitment, especially during this festive season,” he said.
Gbadegesin said the bonus would impact the lives of the recipients and their families, bringing joy and relief during the season.
He said the news was met with jubilation among sanitation workforce, as they expressed appreciation for the governor’s gesture.
The LAWMA boss, who wished residents a happy new year, said the authority would continue to consolidate on its efforts to make all parts of the state clean in 2024.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Sanwo-Olu also approved an end of the year bonus for all public servants in the state for their contributions to the advancement of the state.
Every job has its own hazards, for road sweepers, it is a risky adventure perching on death to keep Lagos clean. On November 13, 2023, a driver rammed into two staff of the Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), leading to their death. ALAO ABIODUN who was at the scene of the accident when it occurred writes about the tragic incident and other shocking findings.
The time difference between life and death is only a split second. One minute man is bubbly with life; in the next, he is interred six feet below.
When two siblings – Adejoke Jimot Adefuye and Afolashade Odufuwa Florence – woke up early Monday, November 13, to carry out their daily routine as sanitation workers of Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), they never envisaged losing their precious lives to a ‘reckless’ hit-and-run driver.
Death is an inevitable end but the one that took away the lives of the two workers, is not the type one should wish for even one’s enemy.
The duo had just recently lost their mother, and were still mourning. It was a bizarre experience! The upkeep and survival of their families occupied a prime position on their mind but on that fateful day, they met with an untimely and painful death.
There must have been tears in heaven and torrents of it on earth! For the traumatized family, they wept uncontrollably on the day the duo were committed to mother earth. They were both indigenes of Isamuro Quarters in Ago Iwoye.
The road to their final interment, began on Thursday, November 16 with a christian wake-keep service held in Bariga area of Lagos state culminating in a final burial service, before they were finally laid to rest in Ogun.
During the burial, hordes of sympathisers including relations, friends, colleagues, government officials, party stalwarts from the All Progressives Congress in Bariga and Ago-Iwoye community, assembled at Isamuro Quarters to pay their last respect to the deceased.
That morning of the tragic incident, darkness descended in that vicinity and the ever-boisterous Charly boy axis was gripped with an unusually chaotic traffic, with people commuting and plying their trade amid the confusion. A driver, Jerry Ironkwe had crushed the two workers, leaving in its wake death, injuries and agony.
Adorning the orange jumpsuits, the duo, waking up very early, each morning, in the past six years of their work as sanitation workers with LAWMA have constantly put their lives at risk to keep the state clean.
But on this tragic day, their mangled bodies were recovered from the gutter on the highway. It was a gory sight. They must have squirmed in pain. With their battered heads, they lay in their own pool of blood motionless.
When The Nation visited the community where the deceased workers lived, it was a sad atmosphere. People gathered with sad faces, speaking in hush tones. Residents of Bariga community were puzzled over their death. The news greeted them with shock and sadness.
Speaking with The Nation about the deceased persons, pounds of reminisces rattled their hurting hearts. Many thoughts welled up in their spirit.
Sympathisers including lawmaker representing Somolu Constituency 2 at the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Samuel Olufemi Apata thronged the family residence at Onasanya Street, off Burahimo Allli Street, Ladi-Lak, Bariga to commiserate with the deceased family.
Hon. Apata described the death of the two late LAWMA staff as a pathetic tragedy and a big blow to the community, noting that the deceased persons were staunch members of APC.
At the solemn Christian wake-keep, sympathisers bade them farewell. It was held at Ladi-Lak Primary School Compound, Bariga, Lagos.
The Managing Director/CEO of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin who was in attendance, eulogised the late sanitation workers for their unalloyed commitment to the Authority’s vision of a cleaner and livable environment in the state, for which they paid the ultimate price.
He said: “Words cannot adequately convey the grief we feel for the untimely passing of these dedicated sanitation workers. Adejoke and Afolashade were valued members of our close-knit community, and their exit leaves a big void.
“As we reflect on their service to the state, we are reminded of their diligence, unwavering commitment to keeping the highways clean. Their tireless efforts contributed significantly to maintaining a cleaner and healthier environment for us all. Our thoughts are with you, and we want you to know that the entire LAWMA family stands with you during this challenging time.”
The LAWMA boss presented cheques to the family, noting that the agency footed the cost of the burial.
Ironkwe, who has since turned himself in at the Lagos State Police Command, killed the sweepers who were discharging their duties around Gbagada-Oshodi Expressway of Lagos State.
The driver, according to the spokesman for the Lagos State Police Command, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, was arraigned for manslaughter.
Ironkwe drove the vehicle with number plate EPE 984 DV.
For Section 325 of the Criminal Code Act in Nigeria, the punishment of manslaughter is that any person, who commits the offence of manslaughter, is liable to imprisonment for life.
However, Ironkwe had been granted bail by the Magistrate Court sitting in Yaba axis of Lagos.
The 45-year-old mechanic was arraigned before Magistrate L.Y. Balogun on three counts bordering on reckless driving. Ironkwe pleaded not guilty to the charges preferred against him by the Police.
The police prosecutor, Chekwubeh Okeh, explained that the offences contravened and are punishable under Sections 18(1) and 20 of the Road Traffic Law, Laws of Lagos State of Nigeria, 2012.
Following Ironkwe’s plea, Balogun admitted him to bail in the sum of N1 million with two responsible sureties in the like sum.
She, however, directed the police to duplicate the case file as well as send it to the office of the Directorate of Public Prosecutions for legal advice and adjourned the case till December 13, 2023.
Eyewitnesses said the driver was evading arrest when he ran into the LAWMA workers.
Protesters who spoke with The Nation at the scene of the incident, accused officials of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) of chasing the driver who crushed the LAWMA workers to death.
But LASTMA and Lagos Task Force denied involvement in the unfortunate incident, adding that investigation had commenced on the matter.
Furious residents at the scene vented their frustration. As usual, groundswells of regrets took over the atmosphere. The anger over the tragic accident got further fuelled by the fact that the driver escaped into thin air, perhaps for the fear of being lynched.
Hundreds of motorists and commuters were trapped for hours in the gridlock along Oshodi-Gbagada expressway, until normalcy was restored. The gridlock had worsened when bystanders blocked both routes of the expressway, causing standstill in vehicular movement.
The influx of vehicles plying the lanes to navigate their destinations inward the expressway created a backlog of traffic that trapped many motorists including travellers heading to Murtala Muhammed International Airport.
A Bariga resident and staunch member of All Progressives Congress (APC), Ruth Lijirin who was at the scene of the tragic incident dousing the tension caused by the protesters, told The Nation that the two siblings were well-known to her, and she had helped them facilitate the job.
The dead siblings were known members of APC from Ward B, Bariga.
Ruth said: “One of the siblings (Adefuye) celebrated 60 years on Sunday (November 12), and the other sister is about 65.
“Their mother is late, and still in the mortuary. I was at the scene of the unfortunate incident alongside the chairman of the community and the DPO of Bariga Police Station.
“It was a tragic situation. I tried to speak and plead with the LAWMA workers. I also appealed to those who were aggrieved not to block the road because they were angry over the incident.”
Also, the National President, Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON) and Chairman, Bariga Local Council, Hon. Kolade David Alabi was at the scene of the incident to appeal to the aggrieved workers and also to douse tension.
A member of the family, Mrs. Biola who spoke with The Nation, explained that deceased workers who are siblings had been working at the Lagos agency for six years as sanitation workers.
She said: “The name of the younger sister is Adejoke Jimot Adefuye; the older sister is Afolashade Odufuwa Florence.
“The older sister is 65years while the younger sister is 60years.
“We were just called hurriedly that while they were working a vehicle crushed them but we don’t know what car it is, that is the only thing we know when the incident happened.
“They have both been working with LAWMA for 6 years. The Bariga Local government Chairman, Hon. Alabi followed us to the mortuary and was with us for a very long time.
“The deceased both have four children each.” she added.
APC LGA Chairman (Bariga), Hon. Mejolagbe Akin who spoke to The Nation explained that the funeral activities for the deceased workers were funded by the government.
He said: “We thank Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-olu, Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, and Bariga Council Chairman, Hon Alabi for making everything possible for the funeral ceremony.
“On Saturday, November 18, the final burial ceremony took place. All arrangements for the burial were fully paid for.
“After the burial ceremony, there are some special arrangements. I can assure you that the dependants of the deceased will be forever grateful to the state government.
“One of the deceased was an exco in the APC (Mama Adefuye) at Ward B, Bariga LCDA; she was also among the LGA singers.
“The LAWMA authority, especially the Commissioner for Environment Tokunbo Wahab, worked with the Commissioner for Transport, Osiyemi. The two Commissioners took charge of the mortuary, the autopsy and everything. The family didn’t contribute a dime in the burial activities; everything was funded by the state government.”
LAWMA reacts
A statement by agency obtained by The Nation said: “The Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) regrets to announce the tragic death of two of our esteemed sanitation workers, who were hit by a reckless driver, in the cause of discharging their lawful duties and rendering invaluable services to humanity around Gbagada axis.
“We wish to appeal to motorists for the umpteenth time, to drive with utmost caution on the highways, to avoid sad incidents like this happening to our sanitation workers or anyone in the course of their legitimate duties.
“The public is urged to remain calm as appropriate steps are being taken and necessary measures put in place.”
Meanwhile, in another development, the agency has mapped out plans to reassess and re-strategise its sanitation (sweeping) activities on some highways across the city, to enable a thorough review of the operational modalities.
Some of the affected routes, which were 160 in number, included: Gbagada Expressway, Iyana Oworo to Charley Boy, Charley Boy to Anthony Oke, Anthony Oke to Oshodi Oke, Oshodi Oke to Anthony Oke, Charity to Iyana Isolo, Iyana Isolo to Balex, Odo Olowo to Cele-Under Bridge, Iyana Itire to Cowbell Bus Stop, Cowbell Bus Stop to Five Star, Five Star to Charity, Charity to Oshodi Oke, Arena to Shogunle Bus Stop (both sides), Costain Apongbon Link Bridge to Alaka (both sides), Alaka to Costain (afternoon), Ilueri to Eko Bridge, Alakija to Dantata Amuwo Odofin (both sides), Abule Ado To Dantata Amuwo Odofin Lbe (both sides), Trade Fair To Abule Ado, First Gate to Mile 2 Amuwo Odofin (both sides), Abule Osun to Onireke, Ojo (both sides), among others.
LAWMA boss said, “We prioritise the safety and welfare of our sanitation workers (sweepers), and this comprehensive plan allows us to conduct a thorough review of identified routes. Our commitment to maintaining a clean and healthy environment remains steadfast, and this measure is a proactive step to enhance the efficiency of our services.”
“During this period, workers in all affected routes and their CEOs will receive notifications to keep them informed of the developments and any changes that may arise from the reassessment. LAWMA appreciates the understanding of service providers and assures them that every effort will be made to minimise any inconvenience during this period,” he noted.
LASTMA, Task Force deny involvement
The Lagos State Task Force refuted reports that officials of the agency were involved in the car chase which led to an accident and tragic death of the two LAWMA officials.
CSP Shola Jejeloye, the chairman of the agency, said no Lagos State Environmental Task Force official was involved in the car chase. Jejeloye said none of the taskforce officials was posted out on Monday morning for any traffic enforcement.
He disclosed that they were deployed to Ile-Zik, Dopemu, and Ikeja to maintain law and order during the NURTW protest.
The Lagos State Traffic Management Agency (LASTMA) also denied involvement.
A statement signed by the Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Transportation, Sola Giwa, explained that a thorough investigation had been initiated to unravel the cause.
Giwa noted that officers from Pedro Police Station had recovered the vehicle into their custody to aid further and thorough investigation.
He noted that the driver with registration EPE 984 DV is a traffic offender already captured by the Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR).
Lawmakers express anger
Meanwhile, the Lagos State House of Assembly frowned at the alleged recklessness of some motorists operating in the state just as they raised concerns over the activities of some officials of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA).
At a plenary presided over by the speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, the House invited the Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Hon. Sola Giwa, to appear and give explanations concerning the incessant recklessness of drivers and the roles played by LASTMA officials.
Also invited, among others, is the former General Manager of LASTMA, Bolaji Oreagba.
The decision of the House followed a ‘Matter of Urgent Public Importance’ raised by a member, Hon. Temitope Adewale.
Obasa, while noting that incidents involving recklessness of drivers and careless attitudes of LASTMA officials were on the increase, said, in addition to the invitation of the affected top officials, there was a need to revisit the laws guiding transportation in the state.
While the pursuit of a cleaner Lagos is commendable and necessary, experts who spoke to The Nation averred that it should never be at the expense of the precious lives of street cleaners.
A safety expert, Mr. Adebayo Samson said: “Beyond condolences, prompt and proactive actions from the state government could do the magic of safeguarding street cleaners and also save many precious lives especially those risking their lives to keep Lagos clean, safe and healthy.”
How an impatient motorist terminated the lives of Lagos street sweepers
There is a thin wall between life and death. In one breath, man is bubbly with life; in another, he is interred six feet in the bowels of the earth.
When two siblings – Adejoke Jimot Adefuye and Afolashade Odufuwa Florence – woke up early Monday, November 13, to carry out their daily routine as sanitation workers of Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), they never envisaged that would be their last day on earth. They never knew that their lives would be cut short by a ‘reckless’ hit-and-run driver.
For the traumatised family, they wept uncontrollably on the day the duo was committed to Mother Earth. The two deceased LAWMA members of staff were indigenous to Isamuro Quarters in Ago-Iwoye in Ogun State. The duo had lost their mother and was still mourning her.
In the morning of the tragic incident, darkness hovered over the vicinity of the ever-boisterous Charly Boy axis, which witnessed an unusually chaotic traffic; with people commuting and plying their trade amid the confusion.
A driver, Jerry Ironkwe, had crushed the two workers, leaving in its wake death and agony.
Adorning the orange jumpsuits of LAWMA, the duo waking up very early each morning in the past six years of their employ by LAWMA as sanitation workers, had constantly put their lives at risk to keep the state clean. However, on this day that tragedy struck, their mangled bodies were recovered from the gutter on the highway. It was a gory sight. They must have squirmed in pain. Their heads battered, they lay in their pool of blood motionless.
Death is an inevitable phenomenon; an end that will come when it will.
When The Nation visited the community where the deceased workers lived, the atmosphere was gloomy. People gathered in threes and fours in sober moods; discussing the incident in hushed tones. Residents of Bariga Community were still puzzled over their neighbours’ deaths.
Reminiscing on the lifestyles of the two deceased, their neighbours said they lost women of inestimable values.
Sympathisers, including the lawmaker representing Somolu Constituency 2 at the Lagos State House of Assembly, Samuel Olufemi Apata, thronged the family residence on Onasanya Street, off Burahimo Allli Street, Ladi-Lak Bariga, to commiserate with the deceased’s families.
Apata described the death of the two LAWMA members of staff as a tragedy and a big blow to the community, even as he noted that the deceased persons were staunch members of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
At the christian wake which was held at Ladi-Lak Primary School Compound, Bariga Lagos, sympathisers bade them farewell.
The Managing Director/CEO of LAWMA, Muyiwa Gbadegesin, eulogised the late sanitation workers for their unalloyed commitment to the authority’s vision of a cleaner and livable environment, for which they paid the ultimate price.
He said: “Words cannot adequately convey the grief we feel for the untimely passing of these dedicated sanitation workers. Adejoke and Afolashade were valued members of our close-knit community, and their exit left a big void.
“As we reflect on their service to the state, we are reminded of their diligence and their unwavering commitment to keeping the highways clean. Their tireless efforts contributed significantly to maintaining a cleaner and healthier environment for us all. Our thoughts are with you, and we want you to know that the entire LAWMA family stands with you during this challenging time.” The LAWMA boss presented cheques to the family, noting that the agency footed the cost of the burial.
The driver, who has since turned himself in at the Lagos State Police Command, killed the sweepers who were discharging their duties around the Gbagada-Oshodi Expressway of Lagos State.
The driver, according to the spokesman for the Lagos State Police Command, Benjamin Hundeyin a Superintendent of Police (SP) was arraigned for manslaughter for ramming his car with registration number LAGOS EPE 984 DV. However, Ironkwe had been granted bail by the Magistrate’s Court sitting in the Yaba axis of Lagos.
The 45-year-old mechanic was arraigned before Magistrate L.Y. Balogun on three counts bordering on reckless driving. Ironkwe pleaded not guilty to the charges preferred against him by the police.
The police prosecutor, Chekwubeh Okeh, explained that the offences contravened and are punishable under Sections 18(1) and 20 of the Road Traffic Law, Laws of Lagos State of Nigeria, 2012.
Following Ironkwe’s plea, Balogun admitted him to bail in the sum of N1 million with two sureties in like sum.
She, however, directed the police to duplicate the case file as well as send it to the office of the Directorate of Public Prosecutions for legal advice and adjourned the case till December 13, 2023.
Eyewitnesses said the driver was evading arrest when he ran into the LAWMA workers.
Protesters who spoke with The Nation at the scene of the incident, accused officials of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) of chasing the driver who rammed into the LAWMA workers. But LASTMA and the Lagos State Task Force denied involvement in the unfortunate incident, adding that an investigation had commenced on the matter. A Bariga resident, Ruth Lijirin told The Nation that the two siblings were well-known to her, and she had helped them facilitate the job. Ruth said: “One of the siblings (Adefuye) celebrated her 60th anniversary on Sunday, November 12, and the other sister is about 65 years old.
“Their mother is late, and still in the mortuary. I was at the scene of the incident alongside the chairman of the community and the DPO of Bariga Police Station,” she said. Also, the National President of the Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON) and Chairman of Bariga Local Council, Kolade David Alabi was at the scene of the incident to appeal to the aggrieved workers and also to douse tension.
A member of the family, Mrs. Biola, who spoke with The Nation explained that the deceased workers had been working at the Lagos agency for six years. She said: “The name of the younger sister is Adejoke Jimot Adefuye; the older sister is Afolashade Odufuwa Florence. “The older sister was 65 years old while the younger sister was 60.
“They have four children each,” she added.
LAWMA reacts
A statement by the agency which was obtained by The Nation said: “The Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) regrets to announce the tragic death of two of our esteemed sanitation workers, who were hit by a reckless driver, in the cause of discharging their lawful duties and rendering invaluable services to humanity around Gbagada axis.
“We wish to appeal to motorists for the umpteenth time, to drive with utmost caution on the highways, to avoid sad incidents such as this happening to our sanitation workers or anyone in the course of their legitimate duties. “The public is urged to remain calm as appropriate steps are being taken and necessary measures put in place. “Our heartfelt condolences go to the families of the deceased, whom we love most dearly. May their souls continue to rest in peace.”
LASTMA, Task Force deny involvement
The Lagos State Task Force refuted reports that officials of the agency were involved in the car chase which led to the death of the two LAWMA members of staff. The Chairman of the agency, CSP Shola Jejeloye, said no Lagos State Environmental Task Force official was involved in the car chase. Jejeloye said none of the task force officials was posted out on that Monday morning for any traffic enforcement. He said they were deployed to Ile-Zik, Dopemu and Ikeja to maintain law and order during the NURTW protest. The Lagos State Traffic Management Agency (LASTMA) also denied involvement.
A statement signed by the Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Transportation, Sola Giwa, explained that a thorough investigation had been initiated to unravel the cause of the death of the LAWMA workers. Giwa noted that officers from Pedro Police Station had recovered the vehicle into their custody to aid further and thorough investigation. He noted that the driver with car registration EPE 984 DV is a traffic offender already captured by the Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR).
Lawmakers angry
The Lagos State House of Assembly has frowned at the alleged recklessness of some motorists operating in the state just as they raised concerns over the activities of some officials of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA).
At a plenary presided over by the Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, the House invited the Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi and Giwa to appear and give explanations on the incessant recklessness of drivers and the roles played by LASTMA officials.
Also invited, among others, was the General Manager of LASTMA, Bolaji Oreagba. The decision of the House followed a ‘Matter of Urgent Public Importance’ raised by a member, Temitope Adewale.
Noting that incidents involving recklessness of drivers and careless attitudes of LASTMA officials were on the increase. Obasa said: “In addition to the invitation of the affected top officials, there was a need to revisit the laws guiding transportation in the state.”
While the pursuit of a cleaner Lagos is commendable and necessary, experts who spoke it should not be at the expense of the lives of street cleaners.
A safety expert, Mr. Adebayo Samson, said: “Beyond condolences, prompt and proactive actions from the state government could do the magic of safeguarding street cleaners and also save many lives, especially those risking their lives to keep Lagos clean, safe and healthy.”
A hit-and-run driver who crushed two road sweepers to death on the Gbagada-Oshodi Expressway of Lagos State has surrendered himself to the Lagos State Police Command.
The Nation reports the driver killed the sweepers discharging their duties around Gbagada expressway axis on Monday.
It was learnt the highway managers live on Ajenipa Street, Ladi-Lak area, Bariga. They were on duty around the Gbagada expressway axis when the accident happened.
The driver is at currently at large, but LAWMA said security agencies are on his trail.
Eyewitnesses said the driver was evading arrest when he ran into the LAWMA workers.
Protesters, who spoke with The Nation at the scene of the incident, said officials of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) were chasing the driver when he hit the workers.
Hundreds of motorists and commuters were trapped for hours in the ensuing gridlock on the Oshodi-Gbagada expressway, stretching to the Murtala Muhammed International Airport Road, until normalcy was restored.
A statement by LAWMA reads: “We regret to announce the tragic death of two of our sanitation workers, who were hit by a reckless driver while discharging their lawful duties and rendering invaluable services to humanity around Gbagada axis.
“LAWMA is working with security agencies to apprehend and prosecute the errant driver of the car (EPE 984 DV). We appeal to motorists, for the umpteenth time, to drive with utmost caution on the highways to avoid sad incidents like this.
“The public is urged to remain calm as appropriate steps are being taken and necessary measures put in place. Our condolences go to the bereaved family whom we love most dearly. May the deceased souls continue to rest in peace.”
Spokesman of the Lagos State Police Command, Benjamin Hundeyin who confirmed that normalcy has been restored, said ‘most definitely, we will not allow a breakdown of law and order’.
The Ministry of Transportation has condoled with LAWMA and the bereaved family. It also prayed for the repose of the deceased souls.
A statement by the governor’s Special Adviser of Transportation, Sola Giwa, however said the accident was not caused by LASTMA officials as alleged by eyewitnesses.
It reads: “Immediate investigation showed that no LASTMA personnel was involved in the unfortunate incident. It was also confirmed that policemen from Pedro Police Station recovered the accidented vehicle into their custody to aid further and thorough investigations.
“The Ministry of Transportation assures the public that outcome of the investigation would be made public and anyone found culpable would be prosecuted.”
Two female sanitation workers of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) who were on Monday knocked down by a vehicle around the Charlie Boy area inward Gbagada, Lagos State were siblings, The Nation has learnt.
One of the siblings, Mrs. Adefuye celebrated her 60th birthday on Sunday.
The Nation learnt the two sanitation workers are siblings residing in Ajenipa Street, Ladi-Lak area, Bariga.
A Bariga resident and staunch member of All Progressives Congress (APC), Ruth Lijirin who was at the scene of the tragic incident dousing the tension caused by the protesters, told our correspondent that the two siblings were well-known to her and she helped them facilitate the job.
The dead siblings were known members of APC from Ward B, Bariga.
Ruth said: “One of the siblings celebrated 60 years yesterday (Sunday), and the other sister is about 63.
“Their mother is late and still in the mortuary.
“I was at the scene of the unfortunate incident this morning alongside the chairman of the community and the DPO of Bariga Police Station.
“It was a tragic situation. I tried to speak and plead with the LAWMA workers. I also appealed to those who were aggrieved not to block the road because they were angry over the incident,” she said.
Also, the National President, Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON) and Chairman, Bariga Local Council, Hon. Kolade David Alabi was at the scene of the incident to appeal to the aggrieved workers and douse tension.
LAWMA said, in a statement, the street cleaners were hit by a “reckless driver, in the cause of discharging their lawful duties and rendering invaluable services to humanity around Gbagada axis when the reckless motorist ran over them.”
The agency also said security agencies were on the trail of the driver who is still at large.
Eyewitnesses said the driver was evading arrest when he ran into the LAWMA workers.
Protesters who spoke with The Nation at the scene of the incident, accused officials of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) of chasing the driver who crushed the LAWMA workers to death.
The development drew the ire of eyewitnesses who blocked the Gbagada-Oshodi Expressway, causing gridlock in the area as several motorists and commuters were trapped for hours.
Contacted for a response over the allegation against LASTMA, its spokesperson, Adebayo Taofiq was unreachable as of press time.
