The Ogun State Ministry of Environment on Monday sealed the Panseke Market in Abeokuta, citing environmental violations.
The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Environment and Chairman of the Taskforce on Environmental Compliance and Enforcement, Farook Akintunde, stated that despite multiple warnings, the traders failed to adhere to regulations.
Akintunde highlighted that the traders’ activities, including street trading and using drainages to display goods, posed risks to road users and contributed to flooding due to clogged drains.
He noted that the ministry had engaged in extensive sensitization efforts and held meetings with market leaders, but compliance remained low.
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Contrary to rumors, Akintunde denied that a fine of N2.5 million was imposed, clarifying that the market would be reopened once traders agreed to comply with environmental laws.
He also confirmed that goods seized during the market’s closure had been returned to their owners.
Meanwhile, traders expressed concerns over the economic impact of the market closure and appealed to the government for assistance in reopening the market, as many are struggling to make a living.
