In a decisive move aimed at enforcing environmental regulations and ensuring the well-being of its residents, the Lagos State Government has ordered the immediate closure of the renowned Ladipo and Mushin markets.
This significant development was announced by the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab.
The decision to shutter these markets comes as a response to several environmental offenses that have persisted for far too long, including reckless waste disposal, unhygienic premises, and non-payment of waste bills by traders and market stakeholders.
Mr. Wahab emphasized that these markets would remain closed until they meet the mandatory conditions for redress, marking a critical step in the ongoing efforts to instill compliance in markets throughout the state.
Speaking on this pivotal development, Commissioner Wahab underscored the critical importance of environmental hygiene within marketplaces. He stated, “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.”
Furthermore, Mr. Wahab expressed the state government’s unwavering commitment to collaborating with market stakeholders to facilitate necessary adjustments and improvements, allowing them to meet the required environmental standards. The market, he emphasized, would not be reopened for business until these standards are met.
The commissioner said, “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. LAWMA’s intervention is a significant step towards rectifying these issues and bringing the market to compliance”.
Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, the Managing Director/CEO of LAWMA, also weighed in on the situation, noting that the closure would enable a thorough assessment of the environmental impact of the market’s activities. This assessment would be followed by the implementation of necessary remedial measures.
Dr. Gbadegesin stressed that LAWMA would not hesitate to take decisive actions whenever environmental laws were flouted.
“As Lagos State continues to grow and develop, it is imperative that economic activities are conducted in a manner that is sustainable and environmentally responsible,” Dr. Gbadegesin emphasized. “LAWMA’s recent actions demonstrate the authority’s commitment to this cause. The offensive against environmental infractions will continue until sanity is restored in our markets, while the next stop will be illegal markets,” he stressed.
This closure of Ladipo Market follows similar actions taken against Oyingbo, Alayabiagba, Oke-odo markets, and some sections of Tejuosho Market, all of which were targeted due to serial environmental infractions.
The Lagos State Government’s actions reflect a firm commitment to improving environmental standards and ensuring the well-being of its residents.
