The Lagos State Government has sealed an Access Bank branch in Victoria Island over environmental violations and alleged obstruction of enforcement officers.
Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, announced the action in a statement on Wednesday. He explained that the move followed a whistleblower complaint, which prompted the Lagos State Wastewater Management Office (LSWMO) to inspect the bank’s Oniru facility.
According to Wahab, investigators discovered that the branch’s wastewater treatment system was non-functional. This failure led to untreated sewage being discharged directly into public drainage channels, causing environmental damage. Samples collected from the site confirmed the breach, with laboratory tests showing untreated effluent.
The commissioner further alleged that enforcement officers faced resistance during the operation. He said security personnel and representatives of the bank blocked officials from sealing the premises and attacked members of the enforcement team. Wahab stressed that such actions against government officers would not be tolerated.
He disclosed that the state intends to pursue legal action against those involved in the obstruction. “The State will proceed to court to obtain the necessary orders for the arrest and prosecution of individuals involved in the attack on government officials carrying out their lawful duties,” the statement read.
Wahab emphasized that Lagos would strictly enforce environmental laws across all sectors. He warned that no organization or individual would be exempt from accountability. “There will be no sacred cows in the enforcement of environmental regulations. Any violator, regardless of status, will be held responsible,” he said.
The sealing of the Access Bank branch underscores Lagos State’s increasing reliance on whistleblower reports and inspections to identify environmental breaches. It also highlights the government’s determination to confront pollution and enforce compliance, even when powerful institutions are involved.
