In continuation of its onslaught on filthy markets in the state, the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has shut Oke-odo Market, near Ile-Epo, Abule Egba, for reckless waste disposal and gross environmental abuse.
Earlier, Media Bypass News report that series of unheeded warnings were given to markets in Lagos for shunning filth and embrace proper environmental hygiene prompted the shut down of Oyingbo, Alayabiagba Markets in Lagos Mainland.
In a the statement released on Monday, adding that other markets that risk imminent shut-down for improper waste disposal and sundry environmental infractions include:
Tejuosho Model Market Phase 1, Ladipo Market in Mushin, Anjorin Market, Irewolede Plank Market, Idi-Araba Obele Market, Oni Baba Market, Oba Morufu International Market, formerly known as Ejigbo Market, Ijora 7UP Market, Okeafa Plank Market, Ifelodun Fruit Market, Amukoko, among others.
Managing Director of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, said the move became necessary, to make them comply with environmental laws and regulations, and to warn defaulting markets around the state, to do the needful or risk a closure.
He said, “The closure of Oke-odo Market underscores LAWMA’s commitment to ensuring that public spaces meet the required cleanliness standards. We will not compromise on the health and well-being of residents.”
Dr. Gbadegesin emphasised that the decision was a significant stride in LAWMA’s efforts to sanitise the state, ensuring that public spaces are conducive for business activities and safe for all residents, adding that the closure of the market served as a stark reminder that adherence to cleanliness standards was not negotiable.
“This action is part of a broader initiative by LAWMA to create awareness and enforce sanitation regulations across various markets in the state. Markets that do not meet the prescribed cleanliness standards will face similar consequences as Oke-odo Market.
“Market operators and stakeholders are urged to take this as a wake-up call to institute robust cleanliness practices within their premises”.
According to the statement released by Waste Agency, the MD said further that, “LAWMA remains dedicated to providing guidance and support to markets striving to comply with the sanitation regulations”.
The LAWMA boss called on residents and business owners to support current efforts of the Authority to establish a more hygienic and livable environment across the metropolis, adding that a clean environment was not just an aesthetic concern but a fundamental aspect of public health.
He employed the populace to engage services of assigned PSP operators, instead of resorting to disposing of their waste indiscriminately, adding that LAWMA would not fail to wield the hammer against markets or individuals that flout environmental laws in the state.