The Lagos State Government has taken decisive action to close Mandilas Market for two days, aiming to ensure compliance with its directive for the removal of illegal make-shift structures along road setbacks within and around the market area.
The closure notice was issued following a joint inspection and enforcement exercise conducted by the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) in collaboration with law enforcement agencies and other relevant government bodies overseeing emergency-related concerns.
Dr. Olajide Babatunde, the Special Adviser on e-GIS and Urban Development, emphasised the purpose behind the extended ultimatum, stating, “The extension is to allow affected shop owners to salvage their belongings and voluntarily remove obstructions from walkways.”
Expressing dissatisfaction with the level of non-compliance, Dr. Babajide affirmed the state government’s commitment to enforce compliance rigorously.
Bola Olumegbon-Lawal, the Special Adviser on CBD, highlighted the cleanup initiative’s significance in enhancing residents’ safety and well-being. She expressed concern over safety infractions within Mandilas Market, including the hazardous placement of high-capacity generators.
Appealing for self-compliance, Olumegbon-Lawal reiterated the government’s aspiration for a cleaner, organised, and safer city environment, free from environmental hazards.
Engr. Olalekan Sodeinde, the Permanent Secretary of the Office of Urban Development, emphasised the importance of adherence to laws, warning that non-compliance may result in financial penalties for affected individuals.
“Lagos is an urban state, and there should be organisation and proper coordination in our business and engagements,” remarked Engr. Sodeinde, underscoring the necessity for orderliness in all urban activities.
The state government assured residents of sustained monitoring and enforcement to ensure the success of the cleanup exercise until total sanity is restored to Lagos Island.
