The Lagos State Government has indefinitely shut down 14 markets and commercial spaces in the Ketu and Ikorodu areas over repeated environmental infractions.
This decisive action, executed through the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), followed a series of ignored warnings to market operators accused of violating sanitation rules.
Authorities say the closures became necessary after consistent disregard for environmental safety measures, with many of the affected facilities failing to comply with waste disposal guidelines.
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Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, affirmed the state’s commitment to its environmental policies on Saturday, particularly the Zero Tolerance for Waste initiative.
He stressed that cleanliness and proper waste management are non-negotiable for businesses operating within Lagos.
“The Zero Tolerance for Waste initiative is still fully in force. We are not going back on it. The only acceptable path for all markets and traders is to adopt and maintain decent waste management practices as outlined by the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA)” .
Among the affected locations are Erukan Market, Oja Oba Market, Owoseni Tundas Market, and Oba Ogunjobi Market in Ketu. Others include plaza shops around the BRT terminal, Mile 12, Demurin Street, Ifesowapo Market, and Ikosi Fruit Market.
The government emphasized that these markets would remain closed until traders demonstrate full compliance with sanitation regulations, procure standard waste bins, and engage registered waste disposal services.
Officials added that the closures were not only punitive but intended to drive home the seriousness of maintaining public hygiene across the state.
This move signals a strong message from the state, warning all commercial entities that failure to prioritize environmental responsibility will attract strict consequences.
