The Lagos State Government ordered the reopening of Mile 12 International Market on Monday, after it was closed on Friday.
Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, stated that the market was reopened following a thorough examination that covered all aspects of environmental compliance, waste management procedures, and general cleanliness within the market.
He stated that issues essential to the environment, public health, and safety were non-negotiable because the government would not stand by passively as those principles were damaged and destroyed by the actions of a few people.
“We cannot continue to be nonchalant about our environment. Our negative attitude towards the environment must stop.
”The way we treat the environment, is the way the environment treats us. We cannot fold our arms and allow the nonchalance of a few, affect the generality of the people.
“Following full compliance with environmental standards and safety measures earlier listed as precondition for reopening shut markets, the Lagos State Government has ordered immediate reopening of Mile 12 International Market.
“Inspite of several advocacy and public enlightenment, government is left with no choice than to enforce. The enforcement exercise will be a continuous one, as no Government takes delight in shutting down markets,” Wahab said.
He urged the traders to play by the rules of acceptable standards, putting premium on hygiene for their health and that of the public, stressing that the government will not shy away from shutting down any market that returns to old filthy ways.