The Lagos State Government has debunked rumors of a ban on sachet water, assuring residents that it has no intention of outlawing the essential commodity. This clarification came from Tokunbo Wahab, the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, in a statement posted on his X (formerly Twitter) account on Sunday.
The commissioner was responding to a viral video showing individuals bursting packs of sachet water in factories and on buses, which sparked speculation about a government-led crackdown.
Clarification on Viral Video
Wahab dismissed claims that the operatives in the video were enforcement officers from the Lagos State Government. Instead, he revealed that the individuals were officials of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), conducting an enforcement exercise against non-compliant sachet water.
“Their actions are part of an enforcement exercise targeting sachet water that does not comply with NAFDAC regulations and is in the interest of public health and safety,” Wahab explained.
Plastic Waste Management Strategy
The commissioner reiterated that the Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration is committed to tackling plastic waste through sustainable policies rather than banning sachet water.
“Our focus remains on effective plastic waste management,” Wahab stated. “We are implementing mandatory Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for producers of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), sachets, and carrier bags of no less than 40 microns.”
As part of these measures, the Lagos State Government is working with Producers and Producer Responsibility Organisations (PROs) to establish a Plastic Waste Management Fund. The fund, jointly financed and managed by producers and major importers, aims to address the state’s mounting plastic waste challenges.
No Ban on Sachet Water
The commissioner urged residents to disregard any misinformation suggesting a ban on sachet water. He reaffirmed that the state’s impending ban on single-use plastics and Styrofoam—effective January 2025—will not include sachet water or PET bottles.
“Lagos State has not banned sachet water and does not have plans to do so,” Wahab emphasized.
Public Assurance
This clarification aligns with the government’s earlier statements on prioritizing environmental sustainability without compromising public access to essential commodities. The administration remains focused on implementing policies that balance environmental conservation with economic and public health considerations.
As the January 2025 deadline for the single-use plastics ban approaches, Lagosians are encouraged to stay informed through official channels to avoid falling prey to rumors and misinformation.
