By Aaior K. Comfort

The Lagos State Government has denounced an “unprovoked attack” on officials of the Environmental Sanitation Corps (KAI) by personnel of the Nigerian Army in the Yaba area. The incident occurred while KAI officers were lawfully performing their duties, leading to widespread outrage among state authorities.

In a statement on Tuesday, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, expressed gratitude for the swift intervention of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General T. Lagbaja, and the Director of Chaplain Services, Lt. Col. T.E. Ogbonyomi, which helped to control the situation. Wahab reported that KAI officers were subjected to the attack under the directive of Major Adebiyi and Captain Gowon.

“We extend our sincere gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff and the Director of Chaplain Services for their decisive action in support of civil authorities,” Wahab stated. He emphasized that military personnel must operate under civil governance within their jurisdictions to ensure public order.

Wahab condemned the attack, asserting that such actions against law enforcement officers would not be tolerated in the future. “We strongly condemn this unwarranted and unacceptable assault on officers executing their lawful duties,” he added. “Moving forward, such acts will not be tolerated.”

This incident echoes a similar case from September when a suspect was arrested for allegedly assaulting a civilian staff member of the Lagos State Ministry of Environment and Water Resources during an attempt to resist arrest.

The Lagos State Government reiterated its commitment to maintaining safety and sanitation standards across the state, reinforcing the importance of civil authority in upholding law and order.