In an effort to address growing environmental health issues, the Lagos State Government has closed Oke-Afa Market in Isolo and Katangua Market in Abule Egba for breaking waste disposal standards and engaging in other unsanitary activities around the markets, which constitute serious environmental violations.
Commenting on the development, Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, stated that the government’s zero tolerance for waste initiative, which began last year, was still in progress, emphasizing that any market or facility engaging in reckless waste disposal would face sanctions.
He said: “The government has not jettisoned it’s zero tolerance for waste initiative which we have been pursuing since last year. The only way for markets and traders, is to engage in decent and civilised waste disposal practices as outlined by the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA). Any market or facility that runs foul of this arrangement will face sanctions.”
Mr. Wahab told people that the markets would stay closed until strict hygiene and garbage disposal procedures were enacted and enforced, and that the state administration was fully committed to guaranteeing cleanliness across the metropolis.
“The health and well-being of our residents are paramount. We cannot allow a few to endanger the health of many through irresponsible environmental practices. The sealing of these markets is a necessary step to compel compliance and safeguard public health, “he said.
Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, LAWMA’s managing director/CEO, asked various market leaders to always mobilize their members to follow waste management requirements, such as using the double dino bins given for markets and practicing hygienic practices in their operations.
According to him, “The rules of engagement are simple enough and the markets are all familiar with them: Do not dispose of waste recklessly; use the dino bins; shun waste disposal on road median around markets; deploy waste policing to prevent and apprehend outsiders messing up your markets and pay your waste bills promptly. It is as simple as that.”
He warned that the zero tolerance program would be pursued more strongly this year, and that markets that refused to adopt fundamental and decent trash disposal standards would face consequences.
Gbadegesin also urged market executives to work more to mobilise their members to do what is right to protect the environment for the benefit of everybody.
“LAWMA deploys resources daily to clear waste from markets across the state. However, our efforts are often hampered by poor waste management practices within the markets themselves. We urge traders and market authorities to adopt responsible waste disposal habits and work with LAWMA to maintain clean and healthy environments”, he stated.
For waste management related issues, call LAWMA toll-free numbers: 080000LAWMA (08000052962), 07080601020 and 617 or send an email to info@lawma.gov.ng.