The Kwanar Gafan Tomato Market in Garun Malam Local Government Area of Kano State has been indefinitely closed following allegations of illicit activities, including prostitution, adultery, homosexuality, and other immoral behavior within and around the market.
The local government chairman, Hon. Barr. Aminu Salisu Kadawa, confirmed the closure, emphasizing the need to restore order. “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,” he stated.
He further warned all occupants to vacate the market premises by January 1, 2025, cautioning that there would be strict consequences for defiance. “This place has been a hiding place for criminals, armed robbers, prostitutes and other criminals alike,” Kadawa added.
The chairman assured that the market’s reopening would only occur after a thorough review of its operations.
An Islamic scholar, Imam Abdullahi Yusif Chiromawa, expressed grave concern about the market’s alleged impact on youth and family values. “The market has become a centre of adultery, homosexuality, and prostitution for the youths and even married women,” he said.
In response to the ultimatum, S.A. Gusau, a representative of the state Commissioner of Police, pledged the enforcement of 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 affirmed.
The decision has elicited mixed reactions among residents. While some commend the closure as a step toward moral rejuvenation, others express concern about the economic consequences for traders who rely on the market for their livelihoods.