Lagos govt shuts Katangua, Oke-Afa markets for poor waste disposal

The Oke-Afa and Katangua markets in Isolo and Abule Egba have been sealed by the Lagos State Government due to violations of waste disposal regulations. These violations include various unclean practices surrounding the markets, which are considered serious environmental offences.

This is stated in a statement that is signed by Mrs. Folashade Kadiri, the Lagos Waste Management Authority's director of public affairs.

According to LAWMA, it was necessary to close the markets in order to address the growing concerns about environmental health.

State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, commented on the development and stated that the government's zero tolerance for waste campaign, which was launched last year, was still on track.

Wahab threatened to sanction any market or establishment that disposed of rubbish carelessly.

“The government has not jettisoned its 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 LAWMA.

“Any market or facility that runs foul of this arrangement will face sanctions,” Wahab said.

The commissioner gave the locals assurance that the markets would be closed until strict waste management and sanitary regulations were put in place and complied with.

He continued by saying that the state administration was fully dedicated to making sure that the entire city was clean.

“The health and well-being of our residents are paramount. We cannot allow a few persons 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,” Wahab said.

Source