Lagos Govt shuts markets over environmental violations
By Sodiq Adelakun
The Lagos State Government has taken decisive action by sealing off several major markets, including Gorodom and Alagbafo markets on Lagos Island.
The Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab confirmed the closures in a post shared on his official X, formerly Twitter, handle early Monday morning.
Photographs and videos accompanying the announcement showed the chaotic scenes as traders scrambled to pack their goods and vacate the premises before the markets were officially sealed around 7 a.m.
This development follows a series of similar actions carried out against other markets, including Oyingbo, Ladipo, Alayabiagba, Oke-Odo, Alaba Rago in Ojo, and Alada market in Ikeja.
These markets were closed for environmental infractions that included blocked drainage systems, lack of waste bins, and filthy conditions.
“This is a continuation of the state’s zero-tolerance policy toward environmental violations,” Wahab said in the post. “Markets that continue to defy environmental standards will face similar actions as we work towards a cleaner, healthier Lagos for all.”
Further enforcement actions are expected in the coming days, with government officials focusing on the removal of unauthorized stalls and shanties impeding drainage channels.
On Sunday, Wahab, alongside other key officials, including Special Adviser on Environment, Olakunle Rotimi-Akodu, and Permanent Secretary of the Office of Drainage Services, Mahmood Adegbite, conducted an inspection of the Savage/Elegbata/Bombata drainage channel around the Olowogbowo-Apongbon axis on Lagos Island.
Wahab emphasised that following the expiration of the 48-hour quit notice given to traders in the area, full enforcement of the removal of illegal structures would begin on Tuesday.
He noted that the obstruction of vital drainage collectors, including Bombata/Olusi and Alagbafo, by traders who have converted the spaces into shops, has exacerbated flooding in the region.
“These illegal structures block the flow of water and create a serious environmental hazard for residents. “This enforcement is in the best interest of the public and aligns with the approved regeneration plans for the entire Lagos Island,” Wahab stated.
Not only have markets been sealed, but commercial buildings and religious centers have also faced similar actions for non-compliance with environmental regulations.
Lagosians are being urged to cooperate with the ongoing reforms to help make the state a safer and more sustainable place for all.
