Four markets in Lagos State – Ladipo, Agbado Oke-Odo, Oyingbo and Alayabiagba – have been shut down by the Lagos State Government over “serial infractions” during the week.
The state Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, disclosed that the aforementioned markets were closed for environmental offences such as reckless waste disposal, unhygienic premises and non-payment of waste bills, among others.
According to a statement signed by the Director of the ministry’s Public Affairs, Mrs Folashade Kadiri, on Thursday, the commissioner said Ladipo Market in Mushin would remain closed until the mandatory conditions of redress were met by traders and market stakeholders.
“It is imperative that markets in the state adhere strictly to environmental laws and regulations put in place for the well-being of residents. The closure of Ladipo Market serves as a stern reminder that no entity, regardless of its size or influence, is above the law.
“Ladipo Market, a prominent hub for automotive spare parts and related services, has been a focal point for environmental concerns due to various activities that contravene established regulations,” Wahab said.
In a related development, the Lagos Waste Management Authority, on Thursday, sealed several plazas around Tejuosho Market, Yaba, for environmental offences.
“Under our policy of zero tolerance for environmental infractions, LAWMA is totally committed to maintaining high environmental standards across the state. The ongoing enforcement actions are part of our broader efforts to sanitise markets, highways, and public spaces, to acceptable standards,” LAWMA Managing Director, Muyiwa Gbadegesin said.
