The Lagos State House of Assembly has advanced the Market Authority Bill, with a majority of lawmakers expressing strong support for the proposed legislation during Tuesday’s session.
Following the debate, Speaker Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa referred the bill to the House Committee on Local Government, instructing them to return with a report within two weeks.
The bill aims to establish a framework for the registration, formation, organization, and operation of market activities in the state. If passed, it will address issues related to market regulation and streamline operations, making it mandatory for all markets in Lagos to be duly registered.
Hon. Sanni Okanlawon, Chairman of the Local Government Committee, highlighted that the bill seeks to correct anomalies in the current law. He added that it would ensure proper oversight and improve the registration of market operations.
Hon. Rauf Age-Suleiman emphasized that the composition of the board outlined in the bill is comprehensive, reflecting the diverse needs of the market system.
Deputy Majority Leader Adedamola Richard Kasunmu noted that the Iyaloja-General is already part of the Market Advisory Council, as stipulated in the bill. He explained that adding her to the Market Board would result in dual roles, which the bill aims to avoid.
Hon. Sa’ad Olumoh pointed out that the bill mandates that the appointment of board members be ratified by the House, preventing traders from arbitrarily awarding themselves titles.
“Clause 18 talks about an advisory board headed by the Iyaloja-General, putting her in a prime position to provide necessary advice,” Olumoh said.
Hon. Stephen Ogundipe expressed confidence that Lagosians would appreciate the proposed law, while Hon. Nureni Akinsanya called for the inclusion of a provision ensuring that only honest individuals are appointed to leadership positions.
Hon. Aro Moshood also highlighted the bill’s emphasis on market cleanliness, effective management, and the resolution of traffic congestion caused by market activities.
The Market Authority Bill is expected to modernize and regulate market operations across Lagos, promoting transparency and efficiency.
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