The government of Gbagi Market in Ibadan has sealed two shopping complexes following an overnight attack on officials of the State Ministry of Environment. The complex owners are being held accountable for alleged obstruction of environmental enforcement officers during a routine inspection.
Sources say armed hoodlums confronted the officers late at night while they were mounted on duty, and caused damage to property before fleeing. In response, the Oyo State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, acting under its statutory powers, ordered the immediate shutdown of the two establishments pending investigation.
The ministry affirmed that no business premises will be allowed to operate outside the law — citing previous warnings issued to market operators about proper waste-management registration, refuse-container availability and compliance with environmental regulations. The sealed complexes now face suspension of operations until the cases are resolved and the owners prove full compliance.
Traders and visitors at Gbagi say the action sends a clear message that enforcement is real. Some have welcomed it hoping it will curb impunity, while others fear potential loss of income if the closures drag on.
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