Oke-Odo market shut for filthy environment, more to follow – LAWMA

In continuation of its campaign against unsanitary markets in Lagos state, the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has closed Oke-Odo Market near Ile-Epo, Abule Egba, due to irresponsible waste disposal and severe environmental damage.

Managing Director of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, said the move became necessary, to make them comply with environmental laws and regulations, and to warn defaulting markets around the state, to do the needful or risk a closure.

He said, “The closure of Oke-Odo Market underscores LAWMA’s commitment to ensuring that public spaces meet the required cleanliness standards. We will not compromise on the health and well-being of residents.”

Dr. Gbadegesin emphasised that the decision was a significant stride in LAWMA’s efforts to sanitise the state, ensuring that public spaces are conducive for business activities and safe for all residents, adding that the closure of the market served as a stark reminder that adherence to cleanliness standards was not negotiable.

“This action is part of a broader initiative by LAWMA to create awareness and enforce sanitation regulations across various markets in the state. Markets that do not meet the prescribed cleanliness standards will face similar consequences as Oke-odo Market. Market operators and stakeholders are urged to take this as a wake-up call to institute robust cleanliness practices within their premises. LAWMA remains dedicated to providing guidance and support to markets striving to comply with the sanitation regulations”, he said.

The LAWMA boss called on residents and business owners to support current efforts of the Authority to establish a more hygienic and livable environment across the metropolis, adding that a clean environment was not just an aesthetic concern but a fundamental aspect of public health.

He employed the populace to engage the services of assigned PSP operators, instead of resorting to disposing of their waste indiscriminately, adding that LAWMA would not fail to wield the hammer against markets or individuals that flout environmental laws in the state.

For waste management related issues, call LAWMA toll-free numbers: 617 and 07080601020.