The Lagos State government on Thursday ordered the immediate shutdown of popular Ladipo Market, Mushin, for several environmental offences ranging from reckless waste disposal, unhygienic premises, and non-payment of waste bills, among others.
This was communicated by the state Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, who insisted the Ladipo market would remain closed until its meets the mandatory conditions of redress by traders and market stakeholders.
He described it as part of ongoing efforts at instilling compliance in markets around the state.
Wahab also emphasized the critical importance of environmental hygiene in markets, as he said, “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.”
Wahab also said the state government remains entirely dedicated to collaborating with market stakeholders so as to facilitate necessary adjustments and improvements and to enable them meet required environmental standards, noting that the Ladipo market would not be reopened for business until set standards were met and continue to be maintained.
He further stressed, “the Ladipo Market is a prominent hub for automotive spare parts and related services which has been a focal point for environmental concerns in the state due to various activities that contravene established regulations. As such, the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA)’s intervention is a significant step towards rectifying these issues and bringing the market to compliance”.
Contributing his comments, Managing Director/CEO, LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, said the closure was intended to ensure a thorough assessment of the environmental impact of the market’s activities and the implementation of necessary remedial measures, serving as a clear signal that the agency would not hesitate to take decisive actions, where and when environmental laws are flouted.
Gbadegesin also added that as the state continues to grow and develop, “it is imperative that economic activities are conducted in a manner that is sustainable and environmentally responsible.
As such, the recent actions demonstrate the authority’s commitment to this cause as anything found offensive against environmental infractions will continue till sanity is restored in our markets, while the next stop will be illegal markets”.
It would be recalled that the closure of Ladipo Market trails a similar action taken against Oyingbo, Alayabiagba, Oke-odo markets, and some sections of Tejuosho Market, for serial infractions in recent times.
The state notes that the current decision to shut down listed markets underscores the government’s unwavering commitment to the restoration of environmental sanity in the city.
