Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria – The Lagos State Government has warned Nollywood actress Sarah Martins to stop cooking and distributing food on public roads in the state, citing violations of environmental and public order regulations.
Okay News reports that the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, issued the warning on Saturday, saying the actress had recently been seen preparing and sharing food on the streets of Lagos as part of a charitable outreach.
While acknowledging the philanthropic intention behind the activity, Wahab said cooking or trading on public roads, walkways or medians is not permitted because it raises safety, sanitation and traffic concerns.
The commissioner noted that Martins had previously been cautioned over the same issue last year, but urged her again to desist from carrying out such activities in public spaces to avoid possible apprehension or prosecution.
Wahab added that individuals who wish to carry out charitable programmes in Lagos should do so through approved channels and in designated locations so that vulnerable people can be supported without violating state laws or creating environmental nuisance.
He emphasised that all residents are expected to obey the law in Lagos just as they would in any properly regulated city.
