Emmanuel OchayiThe Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, has issued a directive for the immediate closure of the iconic Ladipo and Mushin markets.
This surprising decision came as a response to numerous environmental infractions plaguing the markets, ranging from improper waste disposal to unclean premises and non-payment of waste fees.
The Commissioner minced no words in his announcement, saying: “It is imperative that markets in the state adhere strictly to environmental laws and regulations put in place for the wellbeing of residents.”
He added: “The closure of the Ladipo market serves as a stern reminder that no entity, regardless of its size or influence, is above the law.”
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Many believe that the action was long overdue, as the markets have been notorious for flouting established regulations for some time.
Kadiri Folashade, the director of public affairs, who conveyed the Commissioner’s message, stated that the markets would remain inaccessible until traders and market stakeholders adhere to the mandatory conditions for rectification.
“The state government is fully dedicated to engaging with stakeholders to facilitate necessary alterations and improvements, to enable them to meet the required environmental standards,” Folashade stated.
Muyiwa Gbadegesin, responding to the Managing Director and CEO of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), underscored the significance of these closures.
“As Lagos State continues to grow and develop, economic activities must be conducted in a manner that is sustainable and environmentally responsible,” Gbadegesin remarked.
The closures are expected to trigger comprehensive evaluations of how market activities impact the environment and lead to the implementation of essential remedial measures.
The closure of these bustling markets, which are known for automotive spare parts and other products and services, has generated tension within the business community.
Some traders in the market were seen going home as they were unable to access their shops to begin business for the day.
A trader at Ladipo market, Kenneth Abugu, said officials of the Lagos State Waste Management Agency (LAWMA) barricaded all entrance to the market with different items including their trucks and waste containers kept at dump sites.
“I don’t know what the market management is doing that led to what we are saw today,” Mr Abugu told Prime Business Africa as he was going home apparently frustrated by the turn of events.
When asked if they had been paying LAWMA fees, he said, yes, adding that it is left for the market management to settle with the government agency for them to reopen for business.
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