Traders and residents of Boundary Market, Ajegunle, Lagos, have raised alarms over poor sanitation, blaming both fellow residents and inefficiencies in waste management for heaps of refuse littering market roads and contaminating the Ajegunle-Apapa Waterside canal.

Some residents admitted that improper disposal by locals contributes to the problem, while others said Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has failed to fulfill its collection duties.

Shop owner Philip Mgbecheta said, “After closing, people—some living in the market, some sleeping here—dump dirt on the roads. We even contribute money to keep it clean ourselves.” He also called for increased security in the area, citing health risks from accumulating refuse.

Mary Steven, a trader near the canal, added that outsiders and cart pushers often bring garbage to the canal, worsening sanitation. Another trader, Peace Akinloye, suggested that monthly sanitation exercises be reinstated to address the growing waste.

Wholesaler Mr. Jude criticized LAWMA’s inefficiency, claiming residents pay monthly fees yet still handle their own waste disposal.

In response, LAWMA Managing Director Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin attributed the problem to indiscriminate dumping by residents. He urged proper disposal of bagged waste to assigned operators and promised increased monitoring and enforcement, adding that conditions at Boundary Market have improved significantly.