The Lagos State Government has responded to actress Sarah Martins’ allegations of assault by Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI) officers, defending the enforcement action as necessary to uphold environmental laws while appreciating her philanthropic intent.

In a statement on Friday, Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, said that Martins was apprehended by officials of the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC/KAI) at Admiralty area of Lekki Phase 1, for conducting “unauthorised activities on public infrastructure,” specifically cooking on a road median.

“The individual in question claimed to be conducting charitable cooking activities on the road median, which unfortunately contravened existing environmental and sanitation regulations. While the Lagos State Government deeply appreciates the spirit of philanthropy and community support demonstrated by many residents, such initiatives must be carried out in compliance with the state’s extant laws to ensure public safety, environmental protection, and urban order,” Wahab wrote.

He emphasised that while the government values community support, such initiatives must comply with state laws to protect public safety, prevent infrastructure damage, and avoid traffic disruptions.

The statement highlighted the administration’s commitment under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to campaigns like “The administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu remains committed to fostering a clean, sustainable, and livable Lagos for all. Unauthorized use of public spaces, such as road medians, for commercial or personal activities poses significant risks, including damage to infrastructure, health hazards, and disruption to traffic flow. Our enforcement actions, including the arrest and removal of equipment in this case, are part of the #KeepLagosClean and #ZeroToleranceLagos campaigns aimed at preserving the city’s aesthetic and functional integrity,” he added.

He encouraged Lagosians to seek approvals or use designated spaces for charitable activities and to partner with agencies for guidance.

“Lagosians are encouraged to utilize designated spaces or seek necessary approvals for such activities to contribute positively without compromising the state’s standards.

“We urge all residents and organizations involved in charitable endeavors to partner with relevant agencies for guidance on compliant practices. This collaborative approach will help amplify the impact of goodwill while safeguarding our shared urban spaces”, he added.

The response comes a day after Martins detailed her ordeal on Instagram, claiming harassment, bullying, and injury from hot oil spilling during the confrontation, which left her with burns on her hand.

She described the seizure of her cooking gas, food, and supplies as an “unfair attack” on routine act of feeding the homeless.

Wahab noted that enforcement, including the arrest and removal of equipment, was routine to preserve urban order. (THE NATION)