Lagos authorities are cracking down on "street kitchens," even those meant for charity.
Popular actress and comedian Sarah Martins is at the center of this controversy after videos of her cooking for the vulnerable on the streets of Lagos went viral again.
The government argues that large-scale cooking on the road is dangerous. In a previous encounter, hot oil was reportedly spilled, causing injuries during a struggle with officials.
After the actress claimed she received ₦20 million from the President's son, Seyi Tinubu clarified that the money was raised by friends to help her get a proper building for her foundation so she wouldn't have to cook on the street.
Lagos aims to function as a "well-regulated city." Just like in London or New York, you cannot set up a kitchen on a public sidewalk without permission.
The government is not asking her to stop her charity, but to move it off the streets and into approved locations to avoid "environmental nuisance."
