Lagos Commissioner responds after NAFDAC countered his claim on those filmed destroying bags of sachet water

Lagos Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, has reacted after NAFDAC contradicted his claim that its enforcement agents were the ones filmed destroying bags of sachet water

It would be recalled that a viral video emerged showing some men destroying bags of sachet water. Some netizens speculated that the men were from the Lagos Ministry of Environment and Water Resources and were out to enforce the state government’s ban on sachet water.

However, on Sunday, Wahab released a statement to rebuff this claim.

The commissioner said that the state government had not banned sachet water. He also said the man seen bursting the bags of water was not an official of the state government.

He wrote:

‘’My attention has been drawn to a viral video showing some individuals bursting sachet water packs at factories and on buses. I wish to categorically state that these individuals are not enforcement officers from any Lagos State Government agency or the Lagos State Ministry of Environment and Water Resources.

Upon investigation, it was confirmed that the individuals in question are enforcement officers from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). Their actions are part of an enforcement exercise targeting sachet water that does not comply with NAFDAC regulations and in the interest of public health and safety.

As outlined in the Ministry’s release following the Engagement Workshop held on October 3, 2024, we remain committed to addressing plastic waste through sustainable and inclusive measures.

It is important to emphasize that Lagos State has not banned sachet water and does not have plans to do so. Our focus remains on effective plastic waste management. As part of our commitment, we are implementing mandatory Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for producers of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), sachets, and carrier bags of no less than 40 microns.

To further support this initiative, the Lagos State Government, in collaboration with Producers and Producer Responsibility Organizations (PROs), is establishing a Plastic Waste Management Fund. This fund will be financed by contributions from producers and major importers, and it will be jointly managed to address the growing challenges of plastic waste in the State.

Members of the public should disregard any misinformation suggesting a ban on sachet water in Lagos State. The Ministry is fully committed to fostering dialogue and working collaboratively with all stakeholders to ensure sustainable waste management while supporting the economic interests of Lagosians.”

When NAFDAC saw Wahab’s statement, they reacted via their X handle saying those in the viral video were not officials of the agency.

This morning, an X-user pointed out that Wahab’s initial statement appears he wasn’t fully briefed before claiming the men in the video were NAFDAC officials. He also suggested that there was lack of proper communication between Wahab’s team and NAFDAC.

He wrote, “if NAFDAC could disassociate itself from the situation by quoting him, it goes to show there is a lack of miscommunication or an absolute dismissal of a fact  on the part of the Commissioner.”

Responding to the X user, Wahab said he never accused NAFDAC of any wrongdoing, as it was based on initial information that he ‘’believed they might be linked to NAFDAC.’

“Dear @_weyimi

Thank you for your comment. Let me provide some clarity on the situation. A video showing individuals harassing pure water sellers was brought to my attention. Upon investigation, it was confirmed that these individuals were not affiliated with any Lagos State government agency. Based on initial information, it was believed they might be linked to @NafdacAgency

That said, our press statement did not accuse NAFDAC of any wrongdoing. In fact, we specifically commended their efforts in safeguarding public health and safety. Any suggestion otherwise misrepresents the intent of the statement.

It’s also important to emphasize that the Lagos State government is not banning the manufacture or sale of pure water, contrary to some of the false narratives circulating. While there was a minor miscommunication, it does not negate the overall accuracy of the press release or our commitment to addressing the issue transparently.

We encourage everyone to focus on verified facts and avoid amplifying inaccuracies. Our goal remains to ensure clear communication and to protect public interest effectively.

TW”