ASWOL demands  justice

By Philippine Duru

philippineobetoduru@gmail.com

08034905774

The Association of Scraps and Wastepickers of Lagos (ASWOL) has called for an immediate investigation and justice following the alleged destruction and burning of recyclable materials worth millions of naira belonging to informal waste pickers in Amuwo Odofin, Lagos State.

In a statement issued on Thursday and signed by its President, Friday Oku, the association condemned the incident, describing it as a devastating blow to the livelihoods of hundreds of informal waste pickers who depend on the recycling value chain for survival.

According to ASWOL, the destruction of the recyclable materials not only resulted in significant financial losses for its members but also undermined environmental sustainability efforts by releasing harmful emissions into the atmosphere.

“The informal waste sector plays a critical role in reducing waste, promoting recycling, conserving natural resources, and supporting Nigeria’s circular economy,” the statement said. “Our members recover recyclable materials that would otherwise end up in landfills or pollute the environment.”

The association warned that the open burning of recyclable materials contributes to environmental degradation by releasing toxic pollutants and greenhouse gases, posing serious risks to public health while reversing gains made in climate change mitigation and sustainable waste management.

ASWOL called on environmental organizations, climate advocates, human rights groups, development partners, the media, and other stakeholders to support its demand for justice and accountability over the incident.

The association urged the Lagos State Government and other relevant authorities to launch an immediate, transparent, and independent investigation into the destruction of the materials and ensure that those responsible are prosecuted in accordance with the law.

It also demanded adequate compensation for affected waste pickers whose recyclable materials and means of livelihood were destroyed, as well as the immediate release of any waste pickers reportedly detained in connection with the incident.

In addition, ASWOL called on the government to formally recognize and protect the rights of informal waste pickers as legitimate environmental service providers, stressing that they are indispensable partners in achieving sustainable waste management.

The association further advocated for the development of policies that encourage collaboration between government agencies and the informal recycling sector instead of actions that criminalize waste pickers or destroy their sources of income.

Reaffirming its commitment to environmental sustainability, ASWOL said it remains ready to work with government institutions, private sector partners, and civil society organizations to build a cleaner and healthier Lagos through effective recycling and waste management.

The association maintained that environmental protection should not come at the expense of those who have consistently contributed to keeping communities clean through recycling activities.

ASWOL concluded by urging all stakeholders to condemn the alleged destruction of the recyclable materials and support policies that uphold human dignity, protect livelihoods, and strengthen environmental sustainability.

“Justice for waste pickers is justice for the environment,” the association declared, adding that the informal recycling sector remains indispensable to the sustainability of Nigeria’s circular economy.