By Cynthia Johnson
The Lagos State Government has ordered the immediate shutdown of Ladipo Market, Mushin, for several environmental offences, including reckless waste disposal, unhygienic premises, and non-payment of waste bills.
Following a similar action taken against Oyingbo, Alayabiagba, Oke-odo markets, and some sections of Tejuosho Market, for serial infractions, the decision to shut down
Ladipo market underscored the state government’s unwavering commitment to the restoration of environmental sanity in the state.
In a statement, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, gave the directives that the market remains closed until the traders and market stakeholders meet the mandatory conditions of redress.
Quest Times gathered that Wahab who underscored the critical importance of environmental hygiene in markets, noted that it was imperative that markets in the state strictly adhere to environmental laws and regulations which have been put in place for the well-being of residents.
“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.”
He added that the closure of Ladipo Market serves as a stern reminder that no entity, regardless of its size or influence, is above the law.
“LAWMA’s intervention is a significant step towards rectifying these issues and bringing the market to compliance”.
Throwing more light on the reasons for the closure, the Managing Director/CEO of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, said the development was expected to allow for a thorough assessment of the environmental impact of the market’s activities and the implementation of necessary remedial measures.
“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. LAWMA’s recent actions demonstrate the authority’s commitment to this cause. The offensive against environmental infractions will continue till sanity is restored in our markets, while the next stop will be illegal markets”, Muyiwa stressed.”