In a pointed message shared on his X handle @tokunbo_wahab (formerly Twitter) on Saturday evening, Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, has cautioned popular Nollywood actress Sarah Martins to stop her practice of cooking and distributing food on public streets, citing violations of environmental and public order regulations.
The commissioner’s post, addressed directly to Martins’ X handle @officialsarahmartins, acknowledged the philanthropic intent behind her actions but emphasized the need for compliance with city laws. “I hope you are well. My attention has been drawn to your recent activity of cooking and distributing food on the streets of Lagos,” Wahab wrote.
“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.”
Wahab highlighted the potential risks involved, stating, “Cooking or trading on public infrastructure poses safety, sanitation and traffic concerns.” He noted that this was not the first instance of such intervention, adding, “You were previously cautioned about this same issue last year due to the understanding of it’s philanthropic intention and pleas.”
The commissioner urged Martins to halt the activities immediately to avoid legal repercussions.
“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,” he advised.
Offering an alternative, Wahab suggested channeling her efforts through official means: “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.”
He concluded with a broader call for civic responsibility, saying, “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.”
Martins, known for her roles in Nollywood films and her entrepreneurial ventures, has not publicly responded to the commissioner’s message as of early Sunday morning. The actress, who runs a business called Sarah’s Place and often engages in brand influencing, has previously shared glimpses of her charitable work on social media, drawing both praise and scrutiny.
This incident underscores ongoing efforts by the Lagos State government to maintain order in public spaces amid growing concerns over unregulated street activities. Officials have ramped up enforcement of environmental laws in recent years to address issues like traffic congestion and sanitation in one of Africa’s most populous cities.
 on Saturday evening, Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, has cautioned popular Nollywood actress Sarah Martins to stop her practice of cooking and distributing food on public streets, citing violations of environmental and public order regulations.){kind=link}