CITIZENS COMPASS — THE Lagos State Government through the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has sealed the Oyingbo and Alayabiagba markets in Lagos Mainland due to environmental issues.

This followed a series of unheeded warnings to markets in Lagos to shun filth and embrace proper environmental hygiene.

This disclosure is contained in a series of posts by the Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, on his official X (formerly Twitter) account.

He stated that other markets that risk imminent shut-down for improper waste disposal and sundry environmental infractions include: Tejuosho Model Market Phase 1, Ladipo Market in Mushin, Anjorin Market, Irewolede Plank Market, Idi-Araba Obele Market, Oni Baba Market, Oba Morufu International Market, formerly known as Ejigbo Market, Ijora 7UP Market, Okeafa Plank Market, Ifelodun Fruit Market, Amukoko, among others.

Commenting on the development, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, said the Authority’s decision to shut down the markets was arrived at, after several warnings about their noncompliance with the state’s Environmental Protection Laws, which emphasized zero tolerance for environmental offenses, such as indiscriminate dumping of refuse, wilful defacing of the environment and refusal to pay for waste services.

The statement reads,”LAWMA has continued to work relentlessly to improve the environment across the state, particularly commercial facilities, by putting in place several measures aimed at maintaining the cleanliness of the city. However, some individuals and markets are busy undermining our efforts by refusing to abide by the laws and regulations. As the need arises, such individuals, dealers, and markets, will be dealt with, by the law.’

Dr. Gbadegesin cautioned that other markets engaging in irresponsible waste disposal and other environmental violations would face similar harsh consequences, if they refused to turn a new leaf, adding that the executive members of such markets would also be held accountable.

He said, “We must hold businesses accountable for their environmental responsibilities. This enforcement action by LAWMA aims to promote a culture of compliance and create a more livable city for all residents. I also want to emphasize that once a market is closed, it would meet all requirements before being reopened for business.’’

In a related development, the LAWMA boss has hinted at plans to dislodge illegal market structures sprouting across the metropolis. They include: Fiki Marina fruit market; Victoria Island market by Abraham Adesanya roundabout Ajah; Jakande market by Jakande bus stop; Traders Opposite Oniru Market, Oniru and New Road Market by New Road Bus-stop, which according to him were posing safety hazards and impeding the free flow of traffic, as well as urban planning efforts.

He said, “Removing illegal market structures is pivotal for urban planning and development. It allows for proper zoning and allocation of spaces, ensuring a more organized and aesthetically pleasing cityscape.“

He further disclosed that the Authority was seeking collaboration with market associations, local authorities, and relevant stakeholders, to ensure the success of these initiatives, adding that the agency would provide guidance and support to markets, towards establishing efficient waste management systems that comply with established regulations.

He urged markets in the state to support the Authority’s efforts, by following stipulated waste management guidelines, adding that with the agency’s concerted efforts and cooperation of residents, the state would witness significant improvement in waste management, resulting in a cleaner and healthier environment for all.