Lagos State Government Takes Drastic Action Against Poor Waste Disposal Practices in Markets

EKO HOT BLOG reports In a decisive move to address environmental infractions and mounting concerns about poor waste disposal practices, the Lagos State Government has sealed two markets – Oke-Afa market in Isolo and Katangua market in Abule Egba. The closure comes as a response to various unhygienic practices observed around the markets, violating waste disposal regulations.

The statement announcing the closure was issued by Mrs. Folashade Kadiri, the Director of Public Affairs at the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA). The government’s action is part of its ongoing commitment to maintaining environmental health standards in the state.

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According to LAWMA, the closure of these markets became necessary to curb environmental health concerns that pose a threat to public well-being. Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, emphasized the government’s zero tolerance for waste initiative, warning that any market or facility found engaging in reckless waste disposal would face sanctions.

Wahab stated, “The only way for markets and traders is to engage in decent and civilized waste disposal practices as outlined by LAWMA. Any market or facility that runs foul of this arrangement will face sanctions.” He assured residents that the markets would remain sealed until stringent hygiene and waste disposal measures are implemented and compliance is maintained.

The commissioner reiterated the state government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring cleanliness in all parts of the metropolis. “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,” Wahab emphasized.

Muyiwa Gbadegesin, the Managing Director/CEO of LAWMA, called on market executives to play a proactive role in ensuring compliance with waste management regulations. He urged them to mobilize their members to abide by the rules, including the use of provided double dino bins and adherence to hygienic habits in their activities.

Gbadegesin emphasized the simplicity of the rules, stating, “Do not dispose of waste recklessly; use the dino bins; shun waste disposal on road medians around markets; deploy waste policing to prevent and apprehend outsiders messing up your markets and pay your waste bills promptly. It is as simple as that.”

As the zero-tolerance initiative is set to be pursued more vigorously this year, Gbadegesin warned that markets refusing to adopt basic and decent waste disposal practices would face sanctions. He appealed to market executives to work diligently in mobilizing their members to contribute to a cleaner environment.

The LAWMA boss highlighted the agency’s commitment to ensuring a cleaner and healthier environment but acknowledged that their efforts were often hampered by poor waste management practices. Gbadegesin stressed the crucial role of cooperation from all stakeholders, including market operators and traders, in achieving a cleaner Lagos.