LAGOS/Nigeria: Jerome-Mario Utomi, Programme Coordinator at Social and Economic Justice Advocacy (SEJA), participated as a panelist at the Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies (IHS), Erasmus University, Rotterdam, Netherlands has called on the Lagos Statement Government to lead the fight against Environmental Injustice at a panel discussion centered on “The role of multi-stakeholder engagement in achieving environmental justice.”
During the event, Utomi emphasized the need for the Lagos State Government to spearhead efforts against environmental injustice within the state. He highlighted the necessity for public office holders to refrain from controlling discussions on environmental issues, urging them to relinquish the dual role of both guiding and leading the conversations with a broader range of stakeholders.
Utomi expressed concern about the excessive use of “engagement” and collaboration without substantial progress in tackling environmental challenges. He stressed the importance of humility among public office holders, advocating for seeking expert knowledge and assistance when addressing the nation’s persistent environmental issues.
While acknowledging the commendable efforts of the Lagos Government in promoting environmental justice, Utomi urged them to intensify their actions. He called for stronger leadership from the government to eradicate all forms of environmental injustice, citing SEJA’s mission to highlight pressing issues and ensure they receive attention and resolution.
The panel discussion, attended by representatives from Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), Lagos State Waste Management Agency (LAWMA), civil society groups, and community leaders, took place at Victoria Crown Plaza Hotel, Lagos, Nigeria.
Utomi, representing SEJA, utilized the gathering to share the organization’s experiences in advancing environmental justice, particularly in Lagos State. He lauded the discussion as a valuable and enriching platform, forming a part of the training on “Environmental Justice: Reducing Ecological and Social Inequalities through Effective and Participatory Land Governance.”
The longstanding relationship between SEJA and the Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies was highlighted, with Barrister Emmanuel Nwaghodoh, the Group’s National Coordinator, being an IHS graduate and an active member of the school’s alumni association in Nigeria.
