Traders and consumers were stranded on Friday at the Ladipo Market in Lagos after the state government decided to shut down the place.Â
Not many knew the reason the government took the action.
Environmental sanitation in marketplaces is often aimed targeted at reducing the burden of environmental hazards and unhygienic practices.
This situation could result in the spread of diseases among buyers and sellers.
Market closure
After the government considered the situation at Ladipo Market in Mushin it shut it down.
The immediate shut down was ordered by the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab.
His reasons are due to multiple environmental violations, including careless trash dumping, unsanitary conditions, and unpaid garbage bills, among others in Ladipo market.
The shut down was contained in a statement by the ministry’s Director, Public Affairs, Kadiri Folashade, on Thursday, September 28.
He added that it was part of continuous efforts to enforce compliance in marketplaces around the state.
Wahab stated that Ladipo market would stay closed until the mandatory conditions were satisfied by traders and market stakeholders.
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Environmental sanitation
Explaining the critical importance of environmental hygiene in markets, Wahab 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”.
The commissioner said, “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.
“LAWMA’s intervention is a significant step towards rectifying these issues and bringing the market to compliance”.
LAWMA Respond
In his reaction, the Managing Director/CEO of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, said that the closure was expected to allow for a thorough assessment of the market.
Also, to checkmate 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,” he stated
