Lagosians: You Could be Fined N50,000 & be Imprisoned for 6 Months for Smoking in Public!

Ignorance of the law is often grounds for being exploited by devious law enforcement officials. This is why it is imperative to have a general understanding of laws and how they affect you.

On February 17th, 2014, Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Raji Fashola signed the “No Smoking in Public Places” bill into law to regulate smoking in public places. However, a lack of understanding of the law, has led to many Lagosians being exploited. But now, you can learn all about the law here!

Although the bill was signed into law in February, it only becomes effective on August 17th, 2014. Therefore, it is illegal for any official to enforce the law prior to this date. Also, the law will be enforced by the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA); therefore, it can not be enforced by just any official.

In addition, here is some pertinent information you should know:

For individuals 

• Any person found guilty of breaking the law will be liable to a fine of between N10,000 – N15,000, or to imprisonment for between 1-3 months, or other non-custodial punishment at the discretion of the Judge
• Anyone who repeatedly breaks this law will be liable to a fine of N50,000 or 6 months imprisonment or both

For Business Owners

Any owner or person in charge of a “No-Smoking Area” who fails to put up “No-Smoking” signs on his/her premises, install smoke detectors, and/or stop anybody from smoking in the area is liable to:

• Pay a N100,000 fine or be imprisoned for 6 months, or both
• Breaking the law may result in the business property being sealed by the government

To read the “No Smoking in Public Places” law in its entirety, click here:

Lagos State No Smoking Law 2014 – Bella Naija

Choices Ltd. provided the copy of the “No Smoking in Public Places” Law

Photo Credit: www.thedrum.com