Garun Malam Local Government Area (LGA) of Kano State has indefinitely put a halt to all economic activities at the the Kwanar Gafan Tomato Market from January 1, 2025.
The local council noted that the market is serving as a haven for criminals and alleged illicit activities such as prostitution, adultery, homosexuality among others.
The council chairman, Hon. Barr. Aminu Salisu Kadawa, told Daily Trust that the decision was needed to restore order to the area.
Kadawa said all marketers must vacate the premises before the deadline as strict consequences wait for those who fail to comply with the directive.
He said, “Looking at how the market has become a centre for prostitution and other immoral activities contrary to the purpose of the market, it has to be closed indefinitely to restore sanity.
“This place has been a hiding place for criminals, armed robbers, prostitutes and other criminals alike.”
Kadawa noted that the chairman assured that a new date would be announced for reopening once the market’s operations have been properly reviewed.
A representative of the state Commissioner of Police, S.A. Gusau, assured that security agencies would ensure compliance with the evacuation order.
“It is time for the security forces to take charge of the market. We are committed to enforcing the vacation order to ensure law and order,” Gusau said.
The decision to close the market has drawn mixed reactions from residents, with some applauding the move as necessary for moral rejuvenation while others worry about its economic implications on traders.
