# Lagos Governorship Candidates Debate Waste Management and Political Records Candidates clash over refuse collection strategies and their past performance in public office. - **Source:** [Premium Times Nigeria](https://www.premiumtimesng.com) - **Published:** 2026-11-08 - **Topic:** [politics](https://brifing.si/c/politics) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/54309e0b-8b83-442c-92d6-46faeef29da7 ## Lagos Waste Management Crisis Lagos governorship candidates recently clashed over the state's deteriorating waste management system during a televised debate. Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour criticized the current pick-and-dump model, noting a significant decline in collection trucks from 1,000 to 200. The discussion highlighted the urgent need for systemic reform to address the city's persistent sanitation challenges. ## Decentralization and Recycling Proposals Rhodes-Vivour proposed empowering local governments to handle refuse collection while mandating household waste separation. He argued that decentralization would improve efficiency and create economic opportunities through recycling. By shifting from a centralized model, he believes Lagos can better manage its waste volume and recover valuable materials for sustainable development. ## Government Defense of Infrastructure Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat defended the APC government's strategy, emphasizing a transition toward material recovery facilities. He cited the development of transfer stations at Olusosun and Solous 3 as evidence of progress. Despite these efforts, the government acknowledges that inadequate equipment and infrastructure remain significant hurdles in managing the city's waste. ## State of Emergency Declared Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu declared a state of emergency on waste collection in September following widespread complaints. The administration plans to deploy additional equipment and optimize the Private Sector Participation scheme, which has operated since 1997. These measures aim to alleviate the pressure caused by the city's rapidly growing population of 25 million. ## Environmental and Health Concerns Funso Doherty of the NDC highlighted that waste accumulation extends beyond household refuse to include liquid and human waste. He raised serious concerns regarding pollution from the Olusosun dumpsite and its negative impact on surrounding communities. His arguments underscored the broader public health risks associated with the current inadequate waste disposal practices. ## Evaluating Political Independence Obafemi Hamzat faced intense scrutiny regarding his independence from the political establishment that has governed Lagos since 1999. He defended his capacity to lead by citing his academic background, including a PhD earned at 27, and his professional experience in American organizations. He emphasized his personal contributions to state infrastructure projects. ## Record in Public Office Hamzat pointed to the Lekki-Ikoyi Bridge and the Bus Rapid Transit system as key achievements during his tenure as commissioner. Critics, however, questioned why residents should trust him to resolve ongoing issues like flooding and traffic congestion after his eight years as deputy governor. The debate focused on balancing past successes against current failures. ## The 2020 Lekki Tollgate Incident The 20 October 2020 shooting at the Lekki Toll Gate remained a contentious topic during the debate. Hamzat stated the government funded an independent judicial panel and published a White Paper on its findings. He maintained that military control rests with the Federal Government, while Rhodes-Vivour criticized the state's handling of the protests. ## Political Party Movements Funso Doherty addressed questions about his frequent party shifts, including moves between the ADC, PDP, and NDC. He argued that the political environment is difficult, with court interference often forcing candidates to change platforms. He insisted that his primary victory was legitimate despite allegations from other party members regarding the nomination process. ## Opposition Campaign Strategies Rhodes-Vivour, who finished second in the 2023 election, discussed his focus on learning from past campaign mistakes. He emphasized the importance of a credible electoral process for the 2027 polls. His campaign strategy involves direct engagement with voters and proposing urban development solutions, such as low-income housing projects developed with international partners. ## Historical Context of Governance Candidates debated the necessity of executive experience, with Rhodes-Vivour citing the late Governor Lateef Jakande as a model of visionary leadership. This discussion aimed to define the qualities required to manage a complex, densely populated state like Lagos. The candidates sought to distinguish their personal leadership styles from the established political status quo. ## Future Electoral Implications The debate set the stage for a competitive 2027 governorship race, highlighting the deep divisions regarding policy and political history. With Lagos facing significant infrastructure and environmental pressures, the candidates' ability to offer credible solutions will be critical. Voters are now tasked with evaluating these competing visions for the state's future development. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/923789-lagos-governorship-candidates-clash-over-waste-management-defend-political-records.html — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._