Lagos Waste Management Authority shuts down market over the indiscriminate dumping of refuse

LAGOS Waste Management Authority (Lawama) officials have shut down the Sangotedo Market in the Eti Osa area of Lagos State over the indiscriminate dumping of refuse and poor hygienic practices by traders operating there.

According to Lawama, the activities of the traders has created a serious environmental problem, prompting the state government to take the drastic action. Lawama director of public affairs Folashade Kadiri, cited the Lagos State governor’s executive order on traffic and sanitation matters, as the basis on which the decision to shut the market was taken.

This order stresses the government’s zero tolerance for environmental abuse including illegal and indiscriminate dumping of refuse. Mrs Kadiri noted that the government’s efforts at restoring environmental sanity in the area were being distorted by unhygienic activities of traders, who had consistently violated environmental laws.

She added that Lawama was doing everything possible to ensure that the organisation got rid of waste in the state, necessitating the introduction of the Lagos at 4 am operation and other laudable initiatives, aimed at restoring environmental integrity in the state. Lawama has warned of severe sanctions, including further closure of markets that indulge in the indiscriminate dumping of refuse.

Mrs Kadiri urged Lagos residents to support the state government’s quest to establish a sustainable and liveable environment that would be the pride of everyone. She added that Lagosians should shun indiscriminate waste disposal and patronise assigned collection operators.