Lagos shuts market over environmental violations

The Lagos State Government has shut down Itedo Market in Lekki indefinitely over repeated environmental violations and illegal roadside trading.

The state Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, who announced the development on his official X handle on Saturday, said five individuals were arrested for flouting state laws during the enforcement exercise.

He said, “This morning, we took decisive action at Itedo Market, Lekki, which has now been shut down indefinitely due to repeated environmental violations and illegal roadside trading. Five individuals have been arrested for flouting state laws.”

He added that three Black Maria vehicles had been stationed at the market to deter further illegal activity and maintain order in the area.

Three Black Marias have been stationed at the location to deter further illegal activity and maintain order. Lagos will not tolerate disregard for environmental regulations or unauthorised street trading.

“Our commitment to restoring sanity, ensuring public safety, and upholding the rule of law remains unwavering,” Wahab said.

The move comes as part of the state’s ongoing clampdown on environmental infractions and unauthorised trading across major markets and highways.

Online reports that Lagos has repeatedly taken drastic action against markets and plazas that flout environmental laws.

In April 2025, the state government sealed off 13 markets in the Ketu–Mile 12 axis for persistently violating waste management rules.

On the same trajectory, authorities Shut down the Oko Oba Abbattoir in June 2025, citing “inappropriate operational practices” and environmental infractions.

Other interventions include the sealing of public toilet and market for illegal sewage discharge and structural violations.

In March 2025, Wahab had warned Alabarago Market traders failure to clean up within 24 hours would lead to closure.