Lagos State authorities have sealed 13 major markets and commercial hubs across Ketu and Ikorodu Road in a sweeping crackdown on environmental violations, sending a clear message that public health will no longer be compromised by reckless waste practices. The shutdown, executed on Thursday, April 11, 2025, is indefinite and part of the state’s Zero Tolerance for Waste campaign.
Markets affected by the closure include Erukan Market, Oja Oba Market, Owoseni Tundas, Oba Ogunjobi Market, six plazas within Ketu Terminal Market, Ifelodun Market, and the iconic Ikosi Fruit Market. Also shut were plaza shops on Demurin Street, shops at Mile 12 BRT Terminal, and other facilities found guilty of flagrant environmental negligence.
Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, expressed disappointment over the consistent disregard for sanitation laws despite repeated warnings and interventions by the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA). He emphasized that the closures will only be lifted when full compliance—sanitation upgrades, LAWMA partnership, and consistent waste bill payments—is achieved.
LAWMA’s Managing Director, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, who supervised parts of the enforcement operation, described the scale of waste mismanagement across these markets as “shocking and unsustainable.” He criticized traders for dumping waste along road medians, blocking drainages, and undermining the state’s investments in daily waste evacuation.
Market leaders have been ordered to immediately procure double dino bins, appoint internal sanitation monitors, and enroll with registered PSP operators. LAWMA’s message was unequivocal: comply or stay shut. Traders who ignore the directive, Gbadegesin warned, risk permanent loss of market access and legal penalties under the state’s sanitation law.
Public response has been mixed, with many applauding the move as long overdue while others lament the economic impact. However, government officials argue that environmental negligence costs the state billions in health-related issues, road flooding, and traffic obstruction caused by refuse heaps.
Lagos residents and traders can report infractions or request guidance via LAWMA’s 24/7 hotlines (080000LAWMA, 07080601020, or 617) or email info@lawma.gov.ng. The state has reaffirmed its resolve to sustain enforcement until every market aligns with global best practices for urban cleanliness.
