By Ayomide Otitoju
Access Bank Plc is facing scrutiny after Lagos State authorities accused its Oniru, Victoria Island head office of discharging untreated wastewater into public drainage systems, violating environmental laws.
The allegation was confirmed by Tokunbo Wahab, who said the Lagos State Wastewater Management Office (LSWMO) visited the bank following a whistleblower complaint. Officials found the bank’s wastewater treatment plant non-functional, leading to the release of faecal matter into the environment.
During the enforcement visit, LSWMO officers reportedly faced resistance from the bank’s security personnel, resulting in minor attacks on the team. Despite the obstruction, samples of the effluent were collected for laboratory analysis, which tested positive for contamination.
Wahab stated that the Lagos State government would seek court orders to prosecute those involved in resisting enforcement. He emphasized that no individual or organisation is exempt from environmental regulations: “There will be NO SACRED COWS in the enforcement of environmental regulations. Any individual or organisation found violating environmental laws, regardless of status, will be held accountable.”
Attempts to reach Access Bank’s spokesperson, Adekunle Aderinokun, for comment were unsuccessful at the time of reporting.
