In a swift move to clamp down on poor sanitary practices, officials from the Environmental Department of Somolu Local Government recently shut down several shops located along Bajulaiye, Market Street, and Abiodun Street. The operation, carried out just days ago, was triggered by multiple environmental infractions observed by the authorities.
According to Officer Giwa Lateefat, who led the enforcement team, the affected shop owners had flouted basic environmental hygiene standards – actions that could pose serious health risks to the public if left unchecked.
“Environmental negligence is one of the major causes of disease outbreaks in densely populated areas like ours,” Officer Amu said. “The sanitation of business premises is not optional, it is a civic duty. What we observed in some of these shops was unacceptable.”
He emphasized that the move was in line with the directive of the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who has repeatedly stressed the importance of maintaining a clean and safe environment across the state.
“The Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration is committed to making Lagos habitable for all. That commitment includes ensuring residents, particularly traders and shop owners, adhere strictly to environmental laws,” Amu said.
While some traders pleaded for leniency, the officials stood their ground, insisting that rules must be followed for the collective good of the community.Officer Giwa added that no offender would be spared when found guilty of violating sanitation guidelines.
“Anyone who breaks the rules will face the music. The law is clear, and we will not hesitate to enforce it,” he declared.
The closure of the shops serves as a stern warning to others who may be guilty of similar infractions. The local government has promised to continue the exercise until full compliance is achieved across the area.
Residents and shop owners are therefore urged to take proactive steps in ensuring cleanliness within and around their places of business to avoid future sanctions.
