Lagos Government Shuts Down Oko-Oba Abattoir Over Environmental Violations

The Lagos State Government has ordered the immediate and indefinite closure of the Oko-Oba Abattoir in Agege over persistent environmental violations and unhygienic practices.

The shutdown was enforced after a joint inspection led by the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, alongside officials from the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), and the Ministry of Agriculture.

According to the state government, the decision followed several warnings to the operators of the facility, which were repeatedly ignored.

During the inspection, officials discovered untreated wastewater and blood being discharged into public drains, accumulation of animal waste, and the illegal conversion of livestock pens into makeshift sleeping areas for humans.

Commissioner Wahab expressed disappointment at the condition of the facility, stressing that the government would no longer tolerate any form of abuse of public health standards or disregard for environmental regulations.

“The level of filth, stench, and disregard for environmental laws observed here is completely unacceptable,” Wahab said. “This closure will remain in effect until the operators comply fully with all hygiene, environmental, and operational standards required by law.”

The abattoir is one of the largest meat processing facilities in the state, serving a significant portion of Lagos residents.

Its closure is part of the state’s broader effort to enforce compliance under the “Zero Tolerance” campaign aimed at improving public health and environmental safety.

The government has urged stakeholders in the meat processing sector to adhere strictly to laid-down procedures and sanitation requirements or face similar enforcement actions.