The Lagos State Government has reacted to Nollywood actress Sarah Martins’ accusation that officers of the Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI) assaulted and harassed her during a recent encounter in the state.
Martins had earlier taken to her Instagram page, alleging that KAI operatives manhandled her while she was cooking outdoors as part of a community outreach programme. Her post drew widespread reactions on social media, with many users demanding a response from the state authorities.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, refuted the allegations and defended the officers’ actions, stating that Martins’ activity violated Lagos State’s environmental and sanitation regulations.
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According to Wahab, although the government encourages citizens to engage in philanthropic and community-based initiatives, such actions must be carried out in accordance with established laws to ensure order and safety across the city.
“The individual in question claimed to be conducting charitable cooking activities on the road median, which unfortunately contravened existing environmental and sanitation regulations,” Wahab explained.
He added, “The Lagos State Government deeply appreciates the spirit of philanthropy and community support demonstrated by many residents, but such initiatives must be carried out in compliance with the state’s extant laws to ensure public safety, environmental protection, and urban order.”
Wahab further clarified that the enforcement was not targeted at Martins personally but was part of the government’s broader effort to maintain a clean, safe, and organized environment. He said the decision to intervene was made to prevent possible safety risks and obstruction of movement.
“The enforcement was necessary to avoid safety hazards and traffic disruptions. Lagosians are encouraged to use designated spaces or seek necessary approvals for such activities so they can contribute positively without compromising the state’s standards,” the commissioner added.
He urged members of the public to always obtain the required permissions before organizing any form of outdoor charitable or promotional event, stressing that the government’s intention is not to discourage community service but to ensure it is done responsibly.
The incident has since generated mixed reactions online, with some sympathizing with the actress while others supported the government’s stance on maintaining environmental discipline in the state.
