Table of Contents
- Clearance Operation at Tejuosho Market
- Governor's THEMES+ Agenda
- Importance of Organized Public Spaces
- Reasons for Enforcement Actions
- Issues with Traders
- Community Support for Cleanliness
- Public Health Concerns
The Lagos State Government, through the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, has initiated a significant clearance operation at Tejuosho Market in Yaba. This effort aims to restore order and enforce environmental standards in the area.
The ministry stated that this initiative is in line with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES+ agenda, which focuses on creating a cleaner, safer, and more business-friendly Lagos.
Tokunbo Wahab, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, mentioned that public spaces must remain organized, accessible, and free from obstruction.
He further noted that the government will persist in enforcing environmental laws and ensuring full compliance across all regions of the state.
In discussions with reporters, Ajayi Lukman, Head of the Public Affairs and Advocacy Unit of the Lagos Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC), commonly referred to as KAI, revealed that the enforcement was prompted by numerous unresolved complaints from residents.
Lukman explained that the agency had received petitions regarding the traders three months prior, after which they were engaged multiple times and advised to vacate walkways and road setbacks.
Despite several advocacy visits, he stated, the traders continued their activities.
“They did not comply despite repeated engagements, which led to today’s operation (November 18, 2028),” he said.
“These traders left their designated shops and extended their operations onto walkways and setbacks, blocking two lanes and leaving only one available for motorists, effectively turning the road into a market,” he added.
He mentioned that leaders of the traders’ association later came forward to apologize but emphasized that “there will be no reversal on the enforcement.”
Major Olaniyi Olatunbosun Cole (rtd), the Corps Marshal of LAGESC, underscored the importance of residents continuously supporting efforts to keep Lagos clean and conducive for business by monitoring their surroundings.
He criticized the actions of individuals who ignore environmental regulations, highlighting the public health risks associated with such behavior.
Cole also pointed out that practices such as open defecation, open urination, and improper waste disposal significantly contribute to poor air quality in certain areas of the state.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the clearance operation at Tejuosho Market?
The clearance operation aims to restore order and enforce environmental standards in the area, ensuring public spaces remain organized and accessible.
What prompted the Lagos State Government to take action against the traders?
The enforcement was prompted by numerous unresolved complaints from residents regarding traders obstructing walkways and road setbacks.
How does the government plan to ensure compliance with environmental laws?
The government will continue to enforce environmental laws and monitor compliance across all areas of the state.
