Naija News • 2h ago
‘Cooking on public roads is prohibited’ — Lagos govt warns Sarah Martins
**Lagos Govt Warns Actress Sarah Martins Against Cooking on Public Roads**
In a recent development, the Lagos State Government has cautioned actress Sarah Martins against organizing charity cooking activities on public roads and walkways within the state. This warning comes four months after authorities apprehended her for a similar outreach programme in Lekki Phase 1.
Recall that in October 2025, officials of the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC/KAI) arrested the actress for engaging in unauthorized activities on public infrastructure. The LAGESC/KAI law prohibits cooking or selling food on roads and sidewalks, which is in line with Objective Four of the law on "street vending".
Sarah Martins, who is known for her charity work, recently posted a video on her Instagram page showing her cooking on a Lagos street. In the caption, she expressed her desire to revisit the bond she shared with children on the streets and decided to return with a cooking outreach. She described the delicacies they prepared together as "sumptuous".
However, the state government has frown at her actions. The Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, acknowledged the actress's charitable spirit but urged her to comply with the state's environmental and sanitation laws. He emphasized that while charitable initiatives are commendable, they must not disregard the state's regulations.
This warning serves as a reminder to all Lagos residents to adhere to the state's environmental and public order regulations. As a megacity, Lagos has strict laws in place to maintain order and cleanliness on its roads and public spaces. While charity work is essential, it must be done in a manner that respects the law and does not disrupt public order.
In Nigeria, where the informal sector is a significant contributor to the economy, such warnings are crucial in maintaining a balance between charitable initiatives and the need for order and cleanliness in public spaces.