The Managing Director of the Ogun State Waste Management Authority (OGWAMA), Mr. Abayomi Hunye, has issued a stern warning of legal proceedings against a faction alleging he engages in extortion. The group, identifying as members of the Association of Waste Management Vendors and Recyclers of Nigeria (AWMVRN), protested in Abeokuta on Monday, January 9, 2026, accusing him of imposing arbitrary levies and trying to force out established operators.
Hunye Dismisses Allegations as Baseless and Malicious
In a firm rebuttal, Hunye labeled the accusations as completely false and designed to smear his reputation and that of OGWAMA. He stated unequivocally that he has never demanded or collected money from any operator. "The allegations of extortion against my person are completely unfounded and baseless," Hunye declared. He emphasized that the agency's operations are transparent, with all payments directed to official state government accounts, not handled in cash.
He addressed the specific grievance about fee adjustments, clarifying that the changes were implemented back in 2024 and questioning why the matter was being resurrected in 2026. "Extortion involves the illegal collection of money for personal gain. All payments made by operators go directly into designated state government accounts," he added, stressing his commitment to due process.
Association Leadership Disowns Protesters
Adding a significant twist to the story, the Chairman of AWMVRN, Mr. Adesanya Kunle, publicly disowned the individuals who staged the protest. He revealed they were former members suspended in 2023 for alleged fraudulent activities and are no longer legitimate executives of the association.
Kunle explained that the suspended members had formed an unauthorized parallel association. He alleged their protest was motivated by Hunye's refusal to condone their corrupt practices. "The reason they staged the protest... was because he is a man who would not condone corruption, and this set of people wanted him to approve or embrace their corrupt acts," Kunle stated.
Solidarity and Legal Standoff
While the protest was ongoing, a separate group of vendors expressed support for Hunye, carrying placards to affirm confidence in his leadership. This highlights a division within the waste management community.
The situation has escalated into a legal standoff. Hunye's threat of legal action underscores his determination to protect his integrity and OGWAMA's credibility. The authority maintains it operates within its statutory powers to review fees, while the disowned protesters insist on their grievances. The Ogun State House of Assembly and the Police Commissioner, who were reportedly petitioned, have yet to communicate officially with OGWAMA regarding the matter.
