Mile 12 Market Thrives Amidst Vehicular Restriction for Lagos LG Polls

Despite the total vehicular movement restriction imposed across Lagos State for the Local Government Elections, the popular Mile 12 International Market is experiencing a bustling Saturday, with traders reporting brisk business. The market, a major hub for perishable food items, appears largely unaffected by the temporary “lockdown” designed to ensure a seamless electoral process.

As Lagosians head to the polls to elect their local government leaders, the state police command enforced a comprehensive restriction on vehicular movement from 3:00 AM to 3:00 PM today, Saturday, July 12, 2025. This measure typically impacts commercial activities across the metropolis, but Mile 12 Market, known for its critical role in the food supply chain, remains a hive of activity.

Traders at the expansive market were seen engaging in their usual commerce, selling a wide array of agricultural produce including tomatoes, peppers, onions, and various vegetables. Customers, many of whom might have trekked or found alternative means of transportation due to the restriction, converged on the market, indicating the sustained demand for essential food items.

“Business is moving, maybe not as free as a normal Saturday, but people still need to eat,” remarked Mama Ada, a yam seller, while attending to customers. “This market doesn’t really stop, whether there is election restriction or not, because we deal in everyday food.”

Mile 12’s resilience during periods of restricted movement is not unprecedented. During the stricter COVID-19 lockdowns in 2020, the market was among the essential services often exempted or found ways to maintain operations, including through mobile market initiatives, to ensure food supply to the populace. Its strategic location and status as a primary distribution point for foodstuffs coming from various parts of Nigeria and West Africa contribute to its continuous activity.

While most commercial activities and roads in Lagos remain quiet due to the election-day restrictions, Mile 12 Market stands out as an example of an essential economic artery that continues to pump life into the city’s food network, ensuring that residents have access to staples even as they participate in the democratic exercise.