Lagos State Government Denies Ban on Sachet Water, Clarifies Viral Video

The Lagos State Government has denied reports claiming it has banned the sale and distribution of sachet water, commonly known as pure water.

The clarification follows widespread rumors suggesting that such a ban would take effect in 2025.

In a statement shared on Sunday via his X (formerly Twitter) handle, Tokunbo Wahab, the Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, dismissed the claims as false.

Wahab also addressed a viral video showing sachet water packs being destroyed at factories and on buses, clarifying that the individuals involved were not officials of any Lagos State agency or ministry. Instead, they were enforcement officers from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).

“These individuals are NAFDAC enforcement officers targeting sachet water products that fail to meet NAFDAC standards, ensuring public health and safety,” Wahab explained.

He emphasized that Lagos State has no intention of banning sachet water, focusing instead on enhancing plastic waste management. He noted the implementation of mandatory Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for producers of polyethene terephthalate (PET), sachets, and carrier bags of no less than 40 microns as part of the government’s broader environmental strategy.

Wahab reassured the public of the state government’s commitment to sustainability, while addressing health and environmental challenges. His clarification has sparked mixed reactions, with some praising the government’s openness and others expressing concern over the spread of misinformation.

Click to see tweet