![A file photo of Lagos state governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu. Credit: Babajide Sanwo-Olu/Twitter](https://ikejarecord.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/FodxhjrXgAEmvbR.jpeg)
Lagos state’s Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, has ordered the immediate closure of Ladipo Market- a prominent automotive spare parts and services hub in Mushin area of the state.
In a statement released and signed by Kadiri Folashade, Director of Public Affairs of the Ministry on Friday, Wahab stated that the Market would remain inaccessible until traders and market stakeholders fulfill the prescribed conditions and rectify the environmental infractions that prompted this closure.
He said the move is part of the state government’s ongoing efforts to ensure compliance with environmental standards in markets throughout Lagos.
While similar measures have been taken against Oyingbo, Alayabiagba, Oke-odo markets, and specific sections of Tejuosho Market, the closure of Ladipo Market carries a weight of significance, considering its recognition as the largest auto spare parts market in West Africa.
“The closure of Ladipo Market serves as a stern reminder that no entity, regardless of its size or influence, is above the law”, Wahab noted.
In recent days, Lagos State has witnessed a series of actions to enforce environmental regulations. On September 28, 2023, illegal shanties within the FESTAC first gate to the Agboju area were demolished. Prior to that, on September 27, 2023, shops constructed along the drainage alignment along Mokuolu Street, Ogba Road, Ikeja, were also demolished to facilitate improved drainage flow.
Now, the government has gone a step further by banning street trading, hawking, illegal structures on drainage systems, and the display of goods on walkways across the entire state.