Lagos Assembly Moves To Regulate Market Operations

The Lagos State House of Assembly is considering a bill to regulate traders’ activities as part of efforts to regulate market activities.

The Lagos State Market Authority Bill 2024 has been committed to the Committee on Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development and has passed a second reading.

The Speaker, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa directed the Committee to submit its report to the House in two weeks.

The Bill seeks to rectify the anomalies in the extant laws, providing a comprehensive framework for market operations. It also aims to ensure better market management and give the government much-needed control over its activities.

The chairman of the Committee on Local Government Administration, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Hon. Sanni Ganiyu Okanlawon, said the Bill seeks to address inconsistencies in existing market laws and regulations.

Hon. Aro Moshood, who expressed his support for the Bill, noted that if passed into Law, it will aid accountability, prevent corruption and cover all critical areas that were previously overlooked.

He added that the Bill focuses on keeping the markets clean and safe by enforcing rules to improve sanitation and granting Local governments the authority to organise, manage, and control the markets.

Moshood suggested an amendment to address market security after operational hours, citing concerns over criminal activities that occur during the night in the market.

Emphasising the need for inclusivity in the election process, Hon. Kazeem Olayinka said that all tribes engaged in market activities should be given equal opportunities to participate.

He added that the Bill signals the Assembly’s commitment to enhancing market operations and fostering economic growth within Lagos State.