The Lagos State Government has cautioned Nollywood actress Sarah Martins against preparing and sharing food on the streets, warning that she could face arrest and prosecution if the activity continues
The warning was issued on Saturday by the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, in a public statement directed at the actress.
While recognising the charitable motive behind Martins’ actions, the commissioner explained that cooking or selling food on public roads, walkways or road medians violates Lagos environmental and public order regulations. He added that such activities could create sanitation issues, safety risks and traffic disruptions.
According to Wahab, the actress had earlier been warned about the same conduct last year but had resumed the practice.
“While we acknowledge and appreciate the spirit of charity and compassion behind what you are trying to do, carrying out such activities on public roads, walkways or medians is not permitted under Lagos environmental and public order regulations.”
“Cooking or trading on public infrastructure poses safety, sanitation and traffic concerns. You were previously cautioned about this same issue last year due to the understanding of its philanthropic intention and pleas.”
Referring to the earlier warning, Wahab advised Martins to stop the street cooking and instead carry out her charitable efforts through approved channels and designated locations.
“You were previously cautioned about this same issue last year due to the understanding of it’s philanthropic intention and pleas. I would strongly advise that you desist from carrying out street cooking or similar activities in public spaces in Lagos in order to avoid apprehension and prosecution.”
“If you wish to continue your charitable outreach, it should be done through proper channels and in approved locations so that your efforts can support vulnerable people without violating existing laws and constituting environmental nuisance.”
The commissioner also emphasised that everyone living in or visiting Lagos must comply with the state’s laws and regulations.
“We expect everyone to be law-abiding in Lagos, just as they would be in any other well-regulated city.”
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