The Lagos State Government has sealed off 13 major markets in the Ketu and Mile 12 areas over repeated violations of the state’s environmental laws.
The enforcement, which took place Thursday night, targeted traders and shop owners accused of dumping waste illegally on roads, medians, and highways, contravening the Lagos State Environmental Management and Protection Law of 2017.
Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, announced the clampdown on Friday, April 11, morning via his X handle.
“In line with our commitment to environmental sanity, Ketu and Mile 12 markets were successfully sealed last night for persistent violations, including illegal waste disposal on roads, medians, and highways – contrary to the Lagos State Environmental Management and Protection Law of 2017,” Wahab stated.
He emphasised that the action was necessary to restore order and protect public health.
READ ALSO: Frequent fire outbreaks: Sanwo-Olu closes Lagos Island market indefinitely
“These enforcement actions are necessary to safeguard public health and restore order to our public spaces. Market stakeholders must take responsibility for proper waste management going forward.
“Let us work together to build a cleaner, safer, and more responsible Lagos,” he added.
Among the sealed locations were Erukan Market, Oja Oba Market, Owoseni Tundas Market, and Oba Ogunjobi Market in Mile 12. Shops around the BRT Terminal, Mile 12 Bus Stop, Ketu Terminal Market (which includes six plazas), and the Ifesowapo Shop Owners Market were also affected.
Others included Demurin Street Plaza Shops, Ifelodun Market, Ibadan Unit 1 Park (between Babajide Sanwo-Olu Market and Ikosi Fruit Market), and Ketu Tipper Garage.
Officials say the enforcement will continue until affected markets comply fully with environmental standards.