The Nasarawa State Government has ordered the immediate closure of the Lafia Modern Market following the deteriorating sanitary conditions within the facility.

Margaret Elayo, the State Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, led officials of the ministry and security personnel to seal off the market in Lafia on Tuesday.

Elayo disclosed that the decision followed repeated warnings to traders to improve hygiene and maintain a clean environment, that was largely ignored.

She stated that, “The market would remain closed until the traders’ leadership mobilises members to clean and sanitise the premises to make it fit for business operations.”

Some traders, though disappointed by the closure, vowed to cooperate with the government to restore cleanliness in the market.

As of the time of filing this report, all entrances to the market had been locked, with security personnel and environmental sanitation officers stationed at the gates to enforce compliance.

Observers say the sanitary conditions of markets across the state remain appalling, calling for urgent action to address the negligence and poor hygiene practices among traders.

Meanwhile ,earlier in October, the Lagos State Government shut down the Itedo Market in Lekki indefinitely over repeated environmental violations and illegal roadside trading.

Five people were arrested during the enforcement exercise.