The Lagos Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC), also known as KAI, rescued four nursing mothers and their babies from an illegal dumpsite in Agboju, Lagos State, on Monday, August 10. Among the rescued infants was a nine-day-old newborn, according to officials.
Rescue Operation Details
The rescue occurred during an inter-agency operation to clear illegal dumpsites, shanties, and other environmental violations along the Lagos-Badagry Expressway. The women were found living in poor and unsafe conditions around the dumpsite and adjoining shanties, raising immediate concerns about their health and welfare.
The mothers were identified as Fareedat Muyideen, 23, from Kwara State; Ayomide Ayomoke, 25, from Ondo State; Amanda Oziema Abalihi, 20, from Anambra State; and Chisom Ugo, 24, from Imo State. Muyideen was rescued with her two-year-old child, Ayomoke with her 10-month-old baby, Abalihi with her nine-day-old baby, and Ugo with her 11-month-old child.
Official Response and Next Steps
LAGESC Corps Marshal, Major Olaniyi Olatunbosun Cole (retd.), stated that the women and children were moved to safety and arranged for medical attention. The rescued mothers and children are expected to either be reunited with their families or referred to the appropriate welfare authorities. LAGESC is working with government and humanitarian agencies on their rehabilitation and reintegration.
Cole called on relatives who may be looking for any of the women to come forward through the relevant authorities. He used the incident to urge parents and guardians to pay greater attention to the welfare of young people, particularly those who may leave home following alleged maltreatment. He warned that parents or guardians found responsible for child abuse or neglect could face prosecution under Lagos State's laws.
Broader Environmental Enforcement
The rescue comes as Lagos intensifies efforts to remove illegal dumpsites and shanties from major roads and other areas considered environmental hazards. The operation is part of ongoing enforcement actions to address environmental violations in the state.
The four mothers and their children are now receiving medical care, and the authorities are facilitating their rehabilitation and possible family reunification.
