The Lagos State government has dismissed viral social media claims that the city suffers from unpleasant odors and mosquito infestations.
The state Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, responded to remarks made by online personality Scott Iguma during a podcast, where he said, “Lagos is smelling… There are a lot of big mosquitoes in Lagos.” The comments quickly went viral, sparking widespread discussion.
Responding on his official X account, Wahab condemned what he called a deliberate attempt to damage the state’s reputation. He accused certain influencers of using their online platforms to spread misleading narratives that serve divisive purposes and undermine Lagos’s progress. Wahab pointed out that many of these critics had left their home states to pursue opportunities in Lagos but have now turned to disparage the city. He urged them to direct their attention to other states as well.
His statement reads:
“The deliberate efforts by a handful of individuals to tarnish the reputation of Lagos State are deeply concerning. 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. Leveraging social media followings, these individuals propagate harmful narratives, often aligned with divisive agendas, undermining the progress and inclusivity that Lagos represents.
While constructive criticism is essential for growth, malicious attempts to vilify a state that empowers countless lives daily are counterproductive. Lagos remains a place of opportunity, innovation, and resilience, and it is imperative that we collectively uphold its integrity while fostering unity and progress.
Dear @IgumaScott I do hope that you will put this same energy in ‘looking out’ for other states. I wish you all the best!
TW”
Below is the video of the social media personality discussing Lagos…
