In a sweeping move to address environmental sanitation issues, the Lagos State government has taken the decision to seal off the Alaba International Market located in Ojo.
The market’s closure was officially announced by the State’s Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, on Monday via his official Twitter account. The operation to close the market was executed on Monday, October 23, 2023, as part of an ongoing crackdown on environmental violations.
“Alaba International Market, Ojo has been sealed up for poor waste disposal practices, failure to pay their waste bills and gross environmental sanitation offenses,” the commissioner said.
Alaba International Market, Ojo has been sealed up for poor waste disposal practices, failure to pay their waste bills and gross environmental sanitation offences.#ZeroToleranceLagos#CleanerLagos pic.twitter.com/HT83JiLQ0G
— Tokunbo Wahab (@tokunbo_wahab) October 23, 2023
Alaba International Market now joins a list of recent closures, as the Lagos State government intensifies efforts to enforce environmental compliance.
In recent weeks, the Lagos State government has ordered the temporary shutdown of several markets in response to various environmental offenses. These markets have subsequently been allowed to resume operations following comprehensive assessments of their compliance with environmental regulations.
Some of the markets previously affected by these actions include Ladipo Market, Agbado Oke-Odo Market, Oyingbo Market, Alayabiagba Market, Alamutu (Ologede) Market, and specific sections of Tejuosho Market.
The Managing Director of the Lagos State Waste Management Agency (LAWMA), Mr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, provided insights into the decision-making process behind these market closures. He explained that the move was a last resort after repeated warnings to market operators about non-compliance with the State’s Environmental Protection Laws went unheeded.
Despite LAWMA’s persistent efforts to enhance environmental conditions and practices, some individuals and market entities have continued to flout the laws and regulations designed to protect the environment. The government’s response is seen as a necessary step to enforce accountability and drive positive change.
While the closure of Alaba International Market has raised concerns among traders and shoppers, it highlights the government’s determination to prioritize public health, sanitation, and environmental sustainability.
LAWMA, in collaboration with relevant authorities, is expected to carry out thorough inspections, audits, and remediation efforts before allowing the market to reopen, ensuring a cleaner and safer environment for all stakeholders.
