The Lagos State Government has shut down the popular Oko-Oba Abattoir in Agege over what it described as alarming levels of environmental degradation and brazen disregard for public health standards. The decision was taken following an inspection tour led by the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, who was accompanied by members of the press.
Wahab disclosed that the Ministry acted on a formal petition from the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture, which raised serious concerns about the unsanitary activities and poor waste management practices ongoing at the abattoir. According to him, the level of lawlessness observed at the facility was deeply disturbing and posed a significant threat to both public health and the environment.
He revealed that operators at the abattoir were found discharging untreated animal waste directly into the public drainage system, specifically those leading toward the “Harmony” section of the premises. Describing the situation as “heart-wrenching,” the Commissioner condemned the operators for defying established operational guidelines and flouting repeated warnings.
Wahab stated emphatically that such conduct cannot be tolerated in a city striving to uphold hygiene, safety, and environmental integrity. He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to enforcing environmental laws and protecting the health of Lagosians, warning that similar actions would be taken against any facility found to be in violation of public sanitation regulations.
