The Ogun State Government has issued a stern warning to market leaders and traders against indiscriminate waste disposal, saying any market that continues to operate illegal dumpsites could face immediate closure to safeguard public health.
The warning was delivered by the Ogun State Waste Management Authority (OGWAMA) following the evacuation of large waste heaps from the Farmers’ Market on Solu Road, Ifo, and Mamu Market in Ifo and Ijebu North Local Government Areas.
According to the state government, the presence of uncontrolled refuse dumps within market premises poses serious environmental and health risks and undermines ongoing efforts to maintain a cleaner and healthier environment.
Government Condemns Illegal Dumpsites
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Environmental Protection and Managing Director of OGWAMA, Farouk Akintunde, said market leaders have a responsibility to ensure that traders dispose of waste only at designated collection points approved by the government.
He noted that allowing refuse to accumulate within markets instead of using licensed waste collection services is unacceptable and would no longer be tolerated.
Akintunde warned that indiscriminate waste disposal pollutes the environment, creates unhealthy trading conditions and exposes residents to preventable diseases.
Poor Waste Disposal Threatens Food Safety
The waste management agency expressed concern that refuse dumped close to food stalls could contaminate food items sold to the public.
According to the agency, such practices increase the risk of food poisoning and other health-related illnesses, particularly in busy markets where thousands of residents purchase food and household items daily.
Akintunde stressed that markets should remain clean, hygienic and safe for both traders and customers, rather than becoming centres for illegal waste disposal.
He said maintaining proper sanitation is essential to protecting public health and preserving the environment.
Government Warns Against Repeat Offences
The Ogun State Government said it has consistently engaged market associations and community leaders on the importance of proper waste management, making it unacceptable for markets to continue violating environmental regulations.
Akintunde stated that despite repeated sensitisation campaigns, some traders and market executives have continued to ignore established waste disposal guidelines.
He warned that the government would not allow the actions of a few individuals to endanger the health of residents.
Markets Risk Closure
The government cautioned that markets found returning to illegal waste dumping after the recent clean-up exercise would face strict enforcement measures, including closure.
Authorities said the directive is intended to compel full compliance with environmental sanitation standards and encourage responsible waste management practices across the state.
OGWAMA also urged traders, market unions and residents to support government efforts by maintaining clean surroundings and ensuring that waste is disposed of only through government-approved collection channels.
The agency reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining environmental sanitation across Ogun State, warning that enforcement operations against illegal dumping would continue in markets and other public spaces.
