Lagos warns actress Sarah Martins over street cooking
Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources Tokunbo Wahab has warned actress Sarah Martins against cooking and distributing food on Lagos streets, citing environmental and public order regulations. In
Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources Tokunbo Wahab has warned actress Sarah Martins against cooking and distributing food on Lagos streets, citing environmental and public order regulations.
In a statement on X, Wahab acknowledged Martins' charitable intentions but emphasised that such activities pose safety, sanitation, and traffic concerns.
Wahab referenced a previous warning given to Martins last year, advising her to desist from street cooking and instead use approved channels and locations for her philanthropy.
He threatened apprehension and prosecution if she fails to comply, stressing that Lagos expects law-abiding citizens.
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He wrote: “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”.
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Recall that Sarah Martins was apprehended by KAI officials in October 2025 while cooking and sharing meals with residents on a Lagos street.
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The incident, which drew wide attention online, led to the seizure of her equipment and mixed reactions on social media.
Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, defended the operation, stating that Martins had engaged in unauthorised activities on public infrastructure, contravening environmental and sanitation regulations.
The incident also involved Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu, who clarified that he didn't make a N20 million donation to Martins' foundation, but rather some friends raised funds to help her secure a space for her charity work.
The public was divided, with some condemning the officials' conduct and others backing the enforcement action.
Martins appeared distressed in videos circulating online, clutching a hand she said was burned during the altercation.
