Viral cooking video sparks sarah martins’ response to lagos environment commissioner
His words
“Dear @officialsarahmartins
I hope you are well. My attention has been drawn to your recent activity of cooking and distributing food on the streets of Lagos.
While we acknowledge and appreciate the spirit of charity and compassion behind what you are trying to do, carrying out such activities on public roads, walkways or medians is not permitted under Lagos environmental and public order regulations. Cooking or trading on public infrastructure poses safety, sanitation and traffic concerns.You were previously cautioned about this same issue last year due to the understanding of its philanthropic intention and pleas. I would strongly advise that you desist from carrying out street cooking or similar activities in public spaces in Lagos in order to avoid apprehension and prosecution.If you wish to continue your charitable outreach, it should be done through proper channels and in approved locations so that your efforts can support vulnerable people without violating existing laws and constituting environmental nuisance.
We expect everyone to be law-abiding in Lagos, just as they would be in any other well-regulated city.
Thank you for your understanding.
Tokunbo Wahab”
Her response …
“Dear Honourable Commissioner Wahab Tokunbo,
I write with utmost respect regarding the concerns raised about my recent visit to cook with some vulnerable street children.I would like to respectfully clarify that I did not cook on the walkway or on the main street. The meal was prepared in front of the King’s Palace under the supervision of security personnel, and the activity took place far from the main road, ensuring it did not obstruct traffic or create any public nuisance.
