The Lagos State Government (LASG) has issued a 24-hour ultimatum to traders at the Alabarago Market, warning of a possible closure if they fail to comply with the state’s environmental regulations.
The Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, gave the warning during an inspection tour of Alabarago Market and other parts of the state on Sunday. The tour also covered areas including Idi-Araba and Orile-Iganmu.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Wahab emphasized that Alabarago Market had previously been sealed for similar environmental infractions. He noted that a repeat of such action could be taken if traders fail to clean up the premises by Monday evening.
“We have been to Alabarago before, sometime last year, and had to seal the market for them to comply. Unfortunately, we may have to go down that path again if necessary,” Wahab said.
“They’ve turned the area into an illegal dumpsite, spilling waste onto the roads and blocking drainage channels. They’ve promised to clear everything, but if they fail to do so by tomorrow evening, we’ll be left with no choice but to sanction them,” he added.
During his visit to Idi-Araba, Wahab exposed the activities of a cart-pushing syndicate operating in the area, despite a statewide ban on such activities.
“There’s an existing law in Lagos State that prohibits cart-pushing. Recent enforcement efforts have revealed a coordinated syndicate operating around Idi-Araba,” he said. “We’ll be reporting this to law enforcement agencies and will continue to take proactive steps to address the issue.”
At Orile-Iganmu, the commissioner assessed the drainage system and highlighted plans to address flooding in the area.
“We’re here to evaluate the drainage system connected to System 5, which contributes to flooding issues. The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) will begin clearing waste from the area this week to allow proper water flow,” he explained.
As the Sallah celebration approaches, Wahab urged Lagosians to be environmentally responsible.
“Keep your surroundings clean during and after Sallah. Store your waste properly and allow PSP operators to handle disposal. Let’s celebrate responsibly and take ownership of our environment,” he appealed.