The Lagos State Government, on Friday, directed the immediate closure of Mile 12 International and Owode Onirin markets over filth and other environmental infractions.
A statement signed by the Director of Public Affairs, Ministry of Environment and Water Resources, Kunle Adeshina, said the markets were closed during a joint operation carried out by enforcement officers of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) and Lagos Environmental Sanitation Corps (KAI), on the directives of the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab.
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Speaking on the operation, Wahab said, “Recent events at Mile 12 and Owode Onirin markets have brought to light the pressing need for strict adherence to sanitation standards in our markets. The closure, though a difficult decision, is a necessary step to address the prevailing environmental challenges and to ensure the safety and well-being of all stakeholders.
“The closure of Mile 12 and Owode Onirin markets will enable the stakeholders to assess the situation and improve public health and environmental sanity around those axes. Conditions in the markets have deteriorated to a point where immediate intervention has become inevitable.”
The Commissioner said the enforcement action was part of a broader strategy to instill a culture of cleanliness and compliance with environmental regulations across the board for markets within the state.
He urged traders and customers to prioritize hygiene and sustainable practices in their daily business activities.
Managing Director/CEO of LAWMA, Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin, said the markets were closed for very severe unhygienic conditions and a litany of environmental infractions, adding that the closure was necessary to protect the health of the public and to ensure it was properly cleaned up and sanitized.