Lagos, Nigeria – In a swift and decisive move, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, has ordered the immediate closure of Ladipo Market in Mushin. The shutdown comes in response to a multitude of environmental violations, including reckless waste disposal, unhygienic premises, and non-payment of waste bills by traders, among other offenses.
Wahab stated that Ladipo Market would remain closed until traders and market stakeholders fulfill the mandatory conditions for rectification. He emphasized that this action is part of the ongoing efforts to ensure compliance with environmental regulations in markets across the state.
This development was communicated through a statement issued by the Ministry’s Director of Public Affairs, Kadiri Folashade, earlier today.
Commissioner Wahab stressed the critical importance of maintaining environmental hygiene in markets, saying, “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 further elaborated, “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.”
Reacting to the closure, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, the Managing Director/CEO of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), explained that the shutdown aims to facilitate a thorough assessment of the market’s environmental impact and the implementation of necessary remedial measures.
Gbadegesin emphasized LAWMA’s commitment to upholding environmental laws, stating, “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 until sanity is restored in our markets, while the next stop will be illegal markets.”
The closure of Ladipo Market sends a clear message that environmental offenses will not be tolerated in Lagos State as authorities work diligently to ensure a cleaner and more sustainable future for its residents.