The Ogun State Government, acting via the Ogun Waste Management Authority (OGWAMA), has issued a stern warning to traders regarding the accumulation of trash within markets. Officials emphasized that these areas are becoming illegal dumpsites, creating significant public health and environmental risks.
Farouk Akintunde, the Managing Director of OGWAMA and Special Adviser to Governor Dapo Abiodun, stated that any market continuing this practice faces the risk of total closure. This warning followed a cleanup operation at the Farmers Markets on Solu Road in Ifo, as well as the Mamu Market in both Ifo and Ijebu North local government areas.
According to Akintunde, traders must utilize government-licensed waste collectors at designated sites rather than piling refuse within their trading spaces. He highlighted that storing waste near food items creates a high risk of contamination and food poisoning, which threatens the health of the entire state. The government reiterated that markets must remain clean, as they serve as vital public hubs for essential goods. Officials asserted that they will not tolerate negligence that jeopardizes public safety.
