The Lagos State Government has defended the actions of Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI) officers following the uproar caused by actress Sarah Martins’ claims of assault during a charity event in Lekki. Sarah Martins had earlier gone viral after she alleged that she was harassed and assaulted by uniformed men while feeding homeless people on a road median.
In a new statement, the Lagos Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, explained why the actress was confronted. According to him, she was cooking on a road median in the Admiralty area of Lekki Phase 1, which is considered an unauthorized location. He stated that the activity violated environmental and sanitation laws put in place to keep the city clean and safe.
Wahab clarified that while the government supports humanitarian efforts, there are proper procedures and approved locations for such activities. He added that enforcement by KAI officers was part of the state’s ongoing #KeepLagosClean and #ZeroToleranceLagos campaigns. The removal of Sarah’s cooking equipment and her arrest were described as routine enforcement actions meant to maintain order and protect public infrastructure.
The commissioner also encouraged individuals and organizations who wish to carry out charitable activities to obtain the necessary approvals before proceeding. According to him, this ensures safety for both volunteers and the public, while preventing traffic obstruction or damage to government property.
The development has sparked mixed reactions online. While some people believe the government acted within its rights, others feel the situation could have been handled more compassionately. Sarah Martins, however, has maintained that she was unfairly treated, insisting her only goal was to serve love on a plate and feed the less privileged in Lagos.
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