Lagos Commissioner Defends City’s Image After Online ‘Smell’ Allegation
Tokunbo Wahab calls for constructive dialogue, says Lagos offers opportunity and resilience amid criticism from social media user.
Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, has defended the state following a social media post that described Lagos as having an unpleasant smell.
The criticism came from a user, Iguma Scott, who unfavourably compared Lagos to New York, alleging poor environmental conditions. In a firm response shared via his official Twitter account, Wahab condemned what he called “deliberate efforts” to discredit Lagos, particularly by individuals who have benefited from the state’s opportunities.
“It is regrettable that some who relocate from their home states in pursuit of better opportunities quickly, in less than a month or two, resort to disparaging the very state that has provided them the platform to thrive,” Wahab said.
He stressed that while constructive criticism is welcome, spreading malicious narratives undermines the progress and inclusivity Lagos has achieved. Wahab also challenged the critic to hold other states to similar standards.
“Lagos remains a place of opportunity, innovation, and resilience,” he wrote, urging Nigerians to uphold the city’s reputation and contribute to its unity and development.
The response adds to ongoing public discourse about urban management, infrastructure, and living conditions in Nigeria’s commercial capital.
