The Lagos State Government has indefinitely shut down the popular Itedo Market located in Lekki following repeated violations of environmental regulations and illegal roadside trading activities in the area.
The enforcement action, carried out on Saturday, was announced by the Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, through his official X (formerly Twitter) handle. Wahab confirmed that five individuals were arrested during the operation for contravening established state environmental laws.
According to him, “This morning, we took decisive action at Itedo Market, Lekki, which has now been shut down indefinitely due to repeated environmental violations and illegal roadside trading. Five individuals have been arrested for flouting state laws.”
The commissioner further revealed that three Black Maria vehicles have been deployed to the market to serve as a deterrent to others and to maintain order in the area.
He added, “Three Black Marias have been stationed at the location to deter further illegal activity and maintain order. Lagos will not tolerate disregard for environmental regulations or unauthorised street trading.
“Our commitment to restoring sanity, ensuring public safety, and upholding the rule of law remains unwavering,” Wahab said.
The indefinite closure forms part of Lagos State’s ongoing clampdown on environmental infractions and unregulated trading across major markets and highways in the metropolis.
okay.ng reports that the state government has, in recent months, intensified its environmental enforcement drive to ensure public cleanliness, safety, and compliance with waste management laws.
In April 2025, the Lagos State Government sealed off 13 markets within the Ketu–Mile 12 axis for consistent violations of waste management policies. Similarly, in June 2025, the authorities shut down the Oko-Oba Abattoir over “inappropriate operational practices” and environmental infractions.
Other notable interventions have included the closure of public toilets and markets for illegal sewage discharge and structural irregularities. Earlier in March 2025, Wahab had warned traders at the Alabarago Market that failure to clean up the market within 24 hours would result in an immediate shutdown.
The closure of Itedo Market, therefore, reinforces the government’s determination to uphold environmental discipline and restore order across the city’s trading corridors. The state has repeatedly emphasized that no form of street trading, waste mismanagement, or environmental negligence will be tolerated going forward.
