The Lagos State Government has clarified that it arrested actress Sarah Martins for cooking on a road median in Lekki because it was an unauthorized activity on public infrastructure, which violates environmental and sanitation regulations.
The incident is part of the state’s ongoing enforcement campaigns aimed at maintaining urban order.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, the government stated that the woman’s action constituted a violation of established environmental and sanitation laws that regulate the use of public spaces across the state.
According to the ministry, the woman claimed she was preparing food as part of a charitable exercise. However, authorities emphasized that while the government encourages philanthropic activities, such initiatives must adhere strictly to environmental regulations to ensure safety, hygiene, and orderliness.
“The Lagos State Government appreciates the goodwill and community support demonstrated by residents,” the statement noted. “Nonetheless, all charitable activities must comply with existing laws designed to protect public infrastructure and maintain urban discipline.”
The ministry reaffirmed the commitment of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration to building a clean, sustainable, and orderly environment for all Lagos residents.
It added that the use of public infrastructure such as road medians for personal, commercial, or social purposes is strictly prohibited, as it endangers lives, damages facilities, and obstructs traffic flow.
The government also explained that the enforcement exercise, which included the woman’s arrest and the confiscation of her equipment, was carried out under the ongoing #KeepLagosClean and #ZeroToleranceLagos initiatives aimed at protecting the city’s visual appeal and functionality.
Residents and charity organizations were advised to obtain necessary approvals and use designated areas for public activities.
