Lagos govt shuts down popular churches, hotels, supermarkets

The Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) has sealed several churches, hotels, supermarkets, and other establishments across multiple areas of the state over violations of environmental regulations, particularly noise pollution.

In a statewide enforcement operation carried out on Friday, May 2, LASEPA’s task force visited communities including Ogba, Oko Oba, Orile Agege, Dopemu, Abule Egba, Ifako Ijaiye, and Alagbado. Businesses and religious centers found to be flouting the state’s environmental standards were swiftly shut down.

Among the affected places of worship were Assemblies of God Church, Peculiar God’s Glory International Ministry, and Celestial Church of Christ. Popular business outlets such as Primemart Superstore, Maxx-M Square, King Nico Hotel & Event Center, 10:45 Hotel, C2C Meridian Integrated Hotel, and NextBest Bar also had their premises sealed.

In a rare move, LASEPA also sealed a telecommunications mast operated by Globacom, citing environmental disturbances caused by the facility.

According to the agency, the closures followed numerous complaints from residents over excessive noise and environmental disruption emanating from these locations. The enforcement exercise, it said, was aimed at restoring sanity and safeguarding the health and well-being of Lagosians.

“This operation is part of our ongoing commitment to ensure that all business and religious premises operate within acceptable environmental limits,” LASEPA stated. “No one is above the law. The peace and comfort of residents remain our top priority.”

The agency further warned that continued non-compliance with environmental laws will attract strict penalties. It urged all businesses, worship centers, and entertainment facilities to take the rules seriously or risk facing similar sanctions.