In a significant move aimed at safeguarding public health, the Ogun State Waste Management Authority has officially shut down the Ijebu-Imushin Market, located in the Ijebu East Local Government Area. This action was taken in response to alarming levels of poor sanitation and the reckless disposal of waste that have persisted in the market.
During a recent site visit on Tuesday, Mr. Farook Akintunde, the Special Adviser to the Governor on the Ogun State Waste Management Authority (OGWAMA), addressed the concerning state of affairs. He emphasized that the decision to close the market did not come lightly; rather, it was the result of numerous persistent warnings directed toward traders and market leaders. These warnings were issued with the hope of encouraging them to foster a cleaner and more sanitary environment for their customers and the wider community.
Mr. Akintunde pointed out a troubling trend: many traders have consistently failed to engage with the designated Private Sector Participant (PSP) responsible for proper waste evacuation. Instead of utilizing the services provided, they have opted for the more irresponsible route of indiscriminately discarding refuse throughout the market area. This negligence not only undermines cleanliness but also poses serious health risks to everyone who frequents the market.
To combat the waste crisis, OGWAMA had previously undertaken mechanical evacuations to clear the market of accumulated refuse and had even installed a roll-on/roll-off bin specifically for proper waste disposal. Unfortunately, these efforts met with indifference, as traders consistently disregarded the available resources and continued to litter the area at their own discretion. This unacceptable behavior ultimately compromises both public health and environmental safety.
In his address, Akintunde passionately reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to maintaining a sanitary environment, stating unequivocally that the government will not permit the actions of a small number of individuals to endanger the collective well-being of the community. He urged the traders to step up, proactively clean the market, and prioritize responsible waste disposal practices. He made it clear that should they neglect these responsibilities, the closure of the market would be extended indefinitely.
He cautioned, “Indiscriminate dumping will attract flies, contaminate goods, and spread preventable diseases to the public. The well-being of our residents is paramount.” He concluded with a resolute message: “The market will remain closed until we can ensure that all necessary sanitation measures are implemented effectively, putting the health of the community first.” This closure serves not only as a warning but also as a call to action for all market participants to take collective responsibility in safeguarding the health and cleanliness of their environment.
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