Residents Raise Alarm as Overflowing Refuse Takes Over Gate–Ayobo Road in Alimosho

Residents of Gate–Ayobo in Alimosho Local Government Area of Lagos State have called on the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) to urgently evacuate heaps of refuse that have accumulated along a major road in the community.

The overflowing waste, which has remained unattended for days, has obstructed pedestrian movement, forcing residents to navigate through narrow spaces or walk dangerously close to moving vehicles while attempting to cross the road.

Residents who spoke with Shemariah Media described the situation as both a public health concern and a safety risk, warning that the refuse could encourage the spread of diseases if immediate action is not taken.

Some residents expressed frustration over the persistent accumulation of waste despite Lagos State’s efforts to improve environmental sanitation through LAWMA.

“The refuse has become too much. It is now difficult for people, especially school children, elderly residents and traders, to cross the road safely. Apart from the offensive odour, it is becoming an eyesore,” one resident said.

Others noted that the waste has also affected nearby businesses, with customers avoiding the area because of the unpleasant smell and unsanitary conditions.

Environmental experts have consistently warned that prolonged accumulation of refuse can attract rodents, flies and other disease-carrying pests while clogging drainage channels, increasing the risk of flooding during heavy rainfall.

Residents are now appealing to LAWMA and the Alimosho Local Government authorities to immediately clear the refuse and implement more regular waste collection in the area to prevent a recurrence.

They also urged members of the public to dispose of their waste properly and avoid indiscriminate dumping, stressing that maintaining a clean environment requires both effective government services and responsible community participation.

As of the time of filing this report, LAWMA had not issued an official statement regarding the condition of the refuse dump at Gate–Ayobo.

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