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The Garun Mallam Local Government Area of Kano State has shut down the Kwanar Gafan Tomato Market, which was allegedly being used for prostitution, adultery, homosexuality, and other immoral activities.
Reliable sources revealed that some youths and married women were engaging in these acts within the market premises, prompting the local council to take action to restore sanity.
The Council Chairman, Aminu Kadawa, confirmed the development in a Vanguard report on Friday, stating that all market occupants were given a seven-day ultimatum to vacate the premises or face the full wrath of the law.
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.”
The local government chairman added that a date would be announced on when the market will be reopened for normal activities.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Tourism and Management, Aisha Saji, who hailed the decision, said during her tenure as Commissioner for Women Affairs, she led a team of security personnel and Hisbah officials in a raid at the same market, where 43 individuals, including 34 females and nine males aged between 15 and 18, were arrested for prostitution and illegal sale of alcoholic substances.
“Shockingly, 14 of the arrested individuals were confirmed to be HIV-positive, with 10 aware of their status, while four were unaware.
“The suspects hailed not only from Kano but also from neighbouring states, including Adamawa, Anambra, Bauchi, Benue and Taraba,” she said.
The Commissioner further recalled that during her tenure she also wrote a report recommending the demolition of the market for the construction of a skill acquisition centre to address unemployment, among others, in the area.
“This closure should not just mark the end of immoral activities but also serve as a stepping stone for development.
“Establishing a skills development institution in this area will not only curb unemployment but also equip our youths with sustainable means of livelihood,” Saji emphasised.
