LAGOS, Nigeria(VOICE OF NAIJA)- The Chairman of Epe Local Government Area in Lagos State, Ms Surah Animashaun, has issued a strong call to fish traders in Aiyetoro and Oluwo markets to prioritize hygiene as a critical step toward protecting public health.
During a market inspection visit on Saturday, Animashaun emphasized that clean trading environments are not optional, particularly in fish markets where waste generation is high and poor sanitation can quickly trigger disease outbreaks. She stressed that maintaining proper environmental standards is essential to safeguarding both traders and consumers.
According to the council chairman, neglecting cleanliness can encourage the spread of communicable diseases, making effective waste management a public health necessity. She urged traders to dispose of refuse through approved channels, avoid indiscriminate dumping, and ensure that stalls and surrounding areas are cleaned regularly.
Beyond individual responsibility, Animashaun highlighted that environmental hygiene requires collective action, noting that everyone operating within the markets has a role to play in sustaining a safe and healthy environment for business and community well-being.
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At the same time, she cautioned that the local government would enforce existing environmental sanitation laws where necessary. Defaulters, she warned, would face appropriate sanctions if they failed to comply with hygiene regulations. Reinforcing the council’s role, Animashaun assured traders of continued government support, including the provision of waste disposal facilities and consistent monitoring to maintain sanitary market conditions.
Attention was also drawn to safety concerns around roadside trading. The council boss urged traders to stop selling by the roadside in the Aiyetoro market axis, citing repeated motor accidents in the area.
“We, therefore, urge traders to stop selling on the roadside,” she said.
The visit concluded with a renewed commitment from the local government to balance enforcement with support, ensuring that Epe’s fish markets remain clean, safe, and conducive to healthy commerce for residents and visitors alike.
