The Lagos State Government has launched disciplinary action against an environmental enforcement officer after a viral video allegedly showed him receiving a bribe from suspected environmental offenders.
According to state authorities, the officer has been identified and issued an official query. Furthermore, a formal investigation will determine whether he violated the Lagos State Civil Service Rules and Regulations.
The development followed the circulation of a video on social media showing an officer of the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps allegedly collecting N20,000 from individuals arrested for violating environmental laws.
The suspects were seen inside an enforcement vehicle after being picked up by officials. Meanwhile, the officer appeared to receive cash from them during the encounter.
It was alleged that the money was offered to secure their release and prevent them from being taken to court for prosecution.
The incident has drawn widespread reactions online, with many Lagos residents calling for strict disciplinary measures if the allegations are confirmed.
Responding to the controversy, Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, confirmed that immediate action had been taken.
He stressed that the alleged conduct does not reflect the standards expected from public officers serving the state.
According to Wahab:
“My attention has been drawn to a viral video allegedly showing an officer of the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps receiving a bribe from a lawbreaker. Such conduct is unacceptable and runs contrary to the rules, ethics, and core values of the Agency.”
The commissioner explained that the officer had already been issued a query following the emergence of the video.
Moreover, he disclosed that the next step would be a full investigation through the Personnel Management Board.
Wahab stated:
“Consequently, we have immediately issued the officer a query, and this will be followed by the constitution of a Personnel Management Board (PMB) to investigate the matter in accordance with the provisions of the Lagos State Civil Service Rules and Regulations.”
He reaffirmed that the Lagos State Government remains committed to transparency and accountability across all public institutions.
According to him, corruption and official misconduct will not be tolerated under any circumstance.
He added:
“The Lagos State Government maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards corruption and any form of misconduct within its public service. Any officer found culpable will be subjected to the appropriate disciplinary measures as stipulated by the relevant regulations.”
Furthermore, Wahab reminded residents that both giving and receiving bribes are criminal offences under Nigerian law.
He urged members of the public to avoid attempting to influence government officials through illegal payments.
He said:
“I also wish to remind Lagosians that offering a bribe is as unlawful as receiving one. We urge everyone to obey the law and refrain from attempting to compromise enforcement officers. Together, we can uphold integrity, strengthen public trust, and build a more accountable and responsible society.”
Meanwhile, the outcome of the investigation is expected to determine whether further disciplinary measures will be taken against the officer.
The state government has assured residents that due process will be followed throughout the investigation.
Consequently, officials say anyone found guilty will face sanctions in line with existing civil service regulations.
