The Lagos State Government has responded to the controversy surrounding Nollywood actress Sarah Martins and officials of the Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI) task force, defending the enforcement action as a necessary step to prevent the misuse of public infrastructure.
According to The Telegraph, Martins—founder of the Golden Heart Foundation—alleged on Thursday that she was harassed by KAI officials after being stopped from cooking and distributing food to people on a street in Lekki.
Videos circulating on social media showed a visibly distressed Martins, in tears and nursing a swollen hand reportedly scalded by hot oil spilled during the encounter. The footage sparked widespread outrage online, with some Nigerians condemning the KAI officials for what they called excessive force, while others defended the task force’s actions as lawful enforcement of public order.
In a statement released Friday via X.com, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, clarified that Martins was apprehended for carrying out unauthorised activities on a road median, which is classified as public infrastructure.
“Our enforcement actions, including the arrest and removal of equipment in this case, are part of the #KeepLagosClean and #ZeroToleranceLagos campaigns aimed at preserving the city’s aesthetic and functional integrity,” the statement read.
While acknowledging the charitable intent behind Martins’ actions, Wahab emphasized that philanthropy must still comply with state laws.
“The individual in question claimed to be conducting charitable cooking activities on the road median, which unfortunately contravenes existing environmental and sanitation regulations.”
The ministry stressed that such acts, even if well-intentioned, pose public safety risks, may damage infrastructure, and disrupt traffic flow.
“The Lagos State Government deeply appreciates the spirit of community support shown by many residents. However, all such initiatives must be carried out in line with existing regulations to ensure public safety, environmental protection, and urban order.”
Wahab reiterated the commitment of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration to building a clean, sustainable, and liveable city, urging residents to use designated spaces or seek the necessary approvals for public activities.
“We encourage individuals and organisations involved in charitable work to partner with relevant agencies. This collaborative approach ensures that goodwill efforts are impactful without compromising urban standards,” he added.
Separately, Jubril Gawat, Senior Special Assistant on New Media to Governor Sanwo-Olu, also confirmed on Thursday that the operation was part of ongoing efforts to enforce cleanliness and order across the state.
