Following its closure on Friday, the Lagos State Government ordered the reopening of Mile 12 International Market on Monday.
The market was reopened, according to Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, following a careful examination of all facets of environmental compliance, waste management procedures, and general cleanliness within the market.
The government would not stand by idly as such ideals were undermined and compromised by the actions of a small number of people, he said, adding that problems crucial to the environment, public health, and safety were non-negotiable.
We cannot keep taking our surroundings for granted. We need to change the way we think about the environment.
The way we treat the environment determines how it will treat us. We cannot stay silent and let a small group of people’s carelessness to harm the majority of the population.
The Lagos State Government has ordered the immediate reopening of Mile 12 International Market following full compliance with environmental regulations and safety procedures that were previously cited as prerequisites for reopening shuttered marketplaces.
“Despite numerous efforts at campaigning and public education, the government is forced to impose. Since no government enjoys shutting down markets, the enforcement effort will be ongoing, according to Wahab.
He emphasized that the government will not hesitate to close down any market that resumes its previous filthy practices, urging the traders to play by the rules of acceptable standards and placing a high priority on hygiene for both their own health and the public’s.