By John Umeh
The Lagos State Government has shut down Dowen College, Lekki, over alleged violations of environmental regulations linked to indiscriminate waste disposal. The enforcement exercise, led by officials from the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) and the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), was carried out following multiple inspections and complaints from residents in the surrounding area.
Authorities allege that the school failed to comply with proper waste management procedures, posing potential health hazards to students, staff, and neighbouring communities. The state government described the closure as a necessary step to safeguard public health and enforce strict adherence to environmental laws.
Speaking on the action, a senior LASEPA official said, “The state has zero tolerance for environmental infractions. All institutions, whether private or public, must adhere to our waste disposal standards. Failure to do so will attract appropriate sanctions, regardless of the organisation’s status or reputation.”
Dowen College, in a statement, expressed surprise at the development and assured parents and stakeholders that it is working closely with government agencies to address the concerns raised. The school stressed its commitment to maintaining a safe and healthy environment for its students and expressed optimism that the matter would be resolved swiftly.
The closure has sparked mixed reactions among parents and environmental advocates. While some commended the government for prioritising environmental health, others urged for more collaborative measures that ensure compliance without disrupting the education of students.
The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed that the clampdown on environmental violators will continue, urging all educational institutions and businesses to adopt sustainable waste management practices or risk similar sanctions.
