The Lagos State Government has responded to the viral incident involving Nollywood actress Sarah Martins and officials of the Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI), defending the enforcement action as necessary due to the actress’s engagement in “unauthorised activities on public infrastructure.”
Martins, who is also the founder of the Golden Heart Foundation, alleged on Thursday that she was harassed by KAI operatives after being stopped from cooking meals for members of the public on a street in Lekki.
Videos circulating on social media showed the actress visibly distressed and in tears, with a swollen hand reportedly burned by hot oil during the encounter.
The videos sparked widespread reactions online. While some Nigerians condemned the officials’ actions as excessive and inhumane, others maintained that the task force was simply enforcing the law.
In an official statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Friday, the Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, clarified the government’s stance, stating that Martins was apprehended for carrying out activities on a road median—an action that violates environmental and public safety regulations.
“Our enforcement actions, including the removal of equipment, are part of the #KeepLagosClean and #ZeroToleranceLagos initiatives, aimed at maintaining the city’s cleanliness and urban integrity,” the statement read.
While acknowledging the charitable intent behind Martins’ actions, the ministry emphasized that all public activities must comply with established law.
“Though the individual claimed she was cooking for charity, her use of the road median for this purpose contravenes environmental and sanitation laws. Philanthropic efforts are encouraged but must adhere to regulations to ensure public safety and order,” the ministry stated.
Commissioner Wahab reiterated the Sanwo-Olu administration’s commitment to a clean and livable Lagos, warning that unauthorised use of public spaces such as medians can lead to infrastructure damage, health risks, and traffic disruption.
He urged residents and organisations involved in community support efforts to seek proper approvals and work with relevant government agencies.
“We encourage charitable individuals and groups to collaborate with state authorities for guidance on compliant practices. This ensures goodwill efforts are effective without compromising public safety or environmental standards.”
The governor’s Senior Special Assistant on New Media, Jubril Gawat, had earlier confirmed that the enforcement action was in line with the state’s environmental policies.
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