By Solanke Ayomideji Taiwo, Amebo Newspaper NG.
Sagamu, Ogun State — The Executive Chairman of Sagamu Local Government, Ogbeni Jubril Olasile Odulate, has announced the immediate suspension of the executive committees overseeing the NTA Plank Market (Sawmill) and the Itesiwaju International Market, both situated in Ogijo.
The decision followed a working visit by the Chairman, accompanied by members of the Executive Council and Administrative Heads of the Council, to the two markets earlier on Tuesday. The visit, according to the Council boss, was aimed at resolving lingering administrative disputes and ensuring strict adherence to Local Government policies governing market operations.
During the visit, Ogbeni Odulate reaffirmed the constitutional authority of Local Governments over markets within their jurisdictions. Citing the Fourth Schedule, Section 1(e) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), he emphasized that Local Governments are vested with the power to “establish, maintain, and regulate markets, motor parks, and slaughterhouses.”
The Chairman expressed concern over the continued defiance of market executives who, despite several directives, allegedly failed to comply with operational guidelines and administrative policies laid down by the Sagamu Local Government.
“The control and management of all markets within Sagamu Local Government rest solely with the Local Government, as enshrined in the Constitution. Unfortunately, the leadership of these markets has repeatedly disregarded our authority and policies,” he stated.
Ogbeni Odulate declared that the persistent non-compliance and disregard for the Council’s authority left the government with no choice but to suspend all executive activities in the affected markets.
“Henceforth, the Local Government will take full charge of all market activities,” he said, adding that a caretaker committee will soon be constituted to oversee the affairs of both markets pending the restoration of peace, order, and full compliance.
The Chairman further disclosed that the Council would convene a series of stakeholder meetings to deliberate on a sustainable administrative framework that ensures effective management, transparency, and accountability in market operations.
He reassured traders and residents of Sagamu Local Government of his administration’s commitment to maintaining proper regulation, promoting peaceful coexistence, and upholding the principles of good governance.
“Our administration remains focused on promoting order, fairness, and harmony across all markets under our jurisdiction,” he added.
The move by the Sagamu Local Government has been widely interpreted as a bold step toward reasserting local authority and ensuring better coordination of market affairs within the council area.
