The Commissioner for the Environment and Water
Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, has ordered the immediate closure of Ladipo Market,
Mushin, for several environmental offences including, reckless waste disposal,
unhygienic premises, and non-payment of waste bills, among others
He said the market would remain closed until the mandatory conditions of redress were met by traders and market stakeholders, adding that it was part of ongoing efforts at instilling compliance in markets around the state.
Speaking on the development, Mr. Wahab underscored the
critical importance of environmental hygiene in markets, noting that, "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."
He stated that the state government was fully committed
to collaborating with market stakeholders, to facilitate necessary adjustments
and improvements, to enable them meet required environmental standards, adding
that the market would not be reopened for business until set standards were
met.
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”.
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 environmental impact of the market’s activities and the implementation of necessary remedial measures, serving as a clear signal that LAWMA would not hesitate to take decisive actions, where and when environmental laws were flouted.
“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. LAWMA's recent actions demonstrate the
authority's commitment to this cause. The offensive against environmental
infractions will continue till sanity is restored in our markets, while the
next stop will be illegal markets”, he stressed.
The closure of Ladipo Market follows a similar action
taken against Oyingbo, Alayabiagba, Oke-odo markets, and some sections of
Tejuosho Market, for serial infractions. The decision to shut down those
markets underscored the state government's unwavering commitment to the
restoration of environmental sanity in the state
For waste management related issues, call LAWMA
toll-free numbers: 617 and 07080601020.
Kadiri Folashade (Mrs.)
Director, Public Affairs
29/09/2023
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