TheCable

The Lagos state government has announced the immediate closures of Mile 12 and Owode Onirin markets over filth and various environmental infractions.

Kunle Adeshina, director of public affairs at the Lagos state ministry of environment and water resources, said the markets were closed during a joint operation by the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) and Lagos Environmental Sanitation Corps.

Tokunbo Wahab, commissioner for environment and water resources, said the closures had become imperative to address environmental challenges in the city.

He added that post-closure personnel would be deployed to the markets to assess the situation before any consideration for reopening.

“Recent events at Mile 12 and Owode Onirin markets have brought to light the pressing need for strict adherence to sanitation standards in our markets,” he said.

“The enforcement action is part of a broader strategy to instill a culture of cleanliness and compliance with environmental regulations across board for markets within the state.”

On his part, Muyiwa Gbadegesin, managing director of LAWMA, said the markets were closed due to severe unhygienic conditions and a litany of environmental infractions.

He added that the closures were necessary to protect the health of the public, adding that the state government would not relent in enforcing sanitation regulations.