By Egbodo Queen
The Lagos State Government has taken the decisive step of temporarily closing Oke-Afa Market in Isolo and Katangua Market in Abule Egba due to their non-compliance with waste disposal rules and various contaminated activities in and around the markets, leading to serious environmental violations.
This action was announced in a statement issued by Mrs. Folashade Kadiri, the Director of Public Affairs at the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA).
LAWMA explained that the suspension of these markets was necessary to address escalating concerns about environmental health.
Commenting on the development, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, reiterated the government’s commitment to its zero-tolerance policy for improper waste disposal, which has been in effect since the previous year.
Wahab cautioned that any market or institution engaging in irresponsible waste disposal practices would face sanctions.
He stated, “The government’s commitment to a zero-tolerance policy for waste has not waned since its initiation last year. Markets and traders must adhere to proper and civilized waste disposal practices as outlined by LAWMA. Any violation of these guidelines will result in consequences.”
The commissioner made it clear that the markets would remain closed until stringent cleanliness and waste disposal measures were implemented and compliance assured.
He emphasized the government’s dedication to ensuring cleanliness throughout the city, prioritizing the health and well-being of residents.
“The health of our residents is paramount. We cannot allow a few individuals to compromise the health of many through careless environmental practices. The closure of these markets is a necessary measure to enforce compliance and safeguard public health,” Wahab affirmed.
Muyiwa Gbadegesin, the Managing Director/CEO of LAWMA, urged market administrators to consistently educate their members on adhering to waste management regulations.
He emphasized the importance of using the provided double dino bins in markets, avoiding waste disposal on road medians around markets, implementing waste policing to prevent outsiders from interfering with market areas, and promptly paying waste bills.
Gbadegesin warned that the strict enforcement of waste disposal policies would be intensified this year, with markets that fail to adopt essential waste disposal practices facing sanctions.
He also appealed to market executives to work diligently in mobilizing their members to uphold responsible environmental practices for the benefit of everyone.
The LAWMA boss reiterated the agency’s commitment to ensuring a cleaner and healthier environment, stressing the need for cooperation from all stakeholders, including market operators and traders.
Gbadegesin acknowledged the daily financial investments made by LAWMA to clear waste from markets across the state, despite occasional disruptions caused by destitute waste management activities.