The Chairman of Lagos Mainland Local Government Area, Mr Jubril Emilagba, has announced a ban on overnight stays within Oyingbo Market, citing growing security concerns in the area.
Emilagba issued the directive on Friday while addressing market executives and traders during a security meeting held at the market premises.
He explained that the decision was part of deliberate measures by his administration to safeguard lives, property and commercial activities across markets in the local government.
According to the council chairman, allowing people to sleep inside the market poses security risks, as it could create opportunities for criminal activities and compromise the safety of traders and their goods.
“No individual is allowed to sleep within the market environment. This directive is purely a preventive security measure aimed at curbing crime and protecting both traders and customers,” Emilagba said.
He stressed that markets are meant strictly for legitimate trading activities and should not be converted into places of residence. He added that the local government would collaborate with security agencies and market leadership to ensure strict enforcement of the directive.
“We are determined to keep Oyingbo Market safe and orderly. Relevant security agencies will be fully involved to ensure this directive is complied with,” he said.
Emilagba further assured traders of his administration’s commitment to continuous engagement with market stakeholders, noting that cooperation remained key to maintaining a secure and organised trading environment.
During the meeting, the chairman also urged traders to register for the National Identification Number, NIN, and the Lagos State Residents Registration Agency, LASRRA, describing both initiatives as essential for proper identity management and effective security planning.
He also encouraged eligible traders to take part in the ongoing All Progressives Congress, APC, e-registration exercise, saying it would promote grassroots participation in the political process.
Reacting to the development, the Women Leader of Oyingbo Market, Mrs Basira Balogun, welcomed the directive, describing it as a timely step towards improving security within the market.
She assured the local government of the traders’ cooperation, saying, “We understand the security concerns behind this decision, and we will work closely with the authorities to ensure that traders comply fully.”
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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