Oyo Govt Intensifies Environmental Enforcement, Arrests 19 Illegal Scavengers, Seals Polluting Facility in Ibadan
Ibadan, Oyo State — The Oyo State Government has stepped up its environmental enforcement campaign with the arrest and prosecution of 19 illegal metal scavengers across Ibadan metropolis and the sealing of a food processing facility found guilty of violating environmental regulations.
The enforcement action, carried out through the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, follows the commencement of a 24-hour surveillance operation aimed at curbing illegal scavenging activities and addressing environmental pollution across the state.
Speaking during an interview in his office, the Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Hon. Ademola Aderinto, said the operation is targeted at regulating the activities of metal scavengers—popularly known as “BOLA”—to curb infrastructure vandalism, improve public safety and promote environmental sustainability.
According to the Commissioner, open scavenging is prohibited under Oyo State environmental laws, stressing that unchecked scavenging has contributed to environmental degradation and security concerns in several communities.
“The Ministry has a statutory responsibility to keep Oyo State clean and free from activities that pose environmental and public health risks. Illegal scavenging will no longer be tolerated,” Aderinto stated.
He disclosed that 19 illegal scavengers apprehended within Ibadan metropolis have been prosecuted and fined, with penalties ranging from ₦20,000 to ₦50,000, community service and possible jail terms, depending on the severity of the offence.
The Commissioner urged residents to support government efforts by complying with environmental laws and refraining from obstructing enforcement officers in the discharge of their duties.
Meanwhile, in a related enforcement action, the Ministry sealed a food processing facility located in a residential area at Wofun, Ibadan, after investigations revealed that its boiler was emitting excessive carbon soot, causing air pollution and posing serious health risks to residents.
Officials of the Ministry found that the level of emissions from the facility violated established environmental standards and guidelines, prompting its immediate closure to prevent further environmental harm.
Hon. Aderinto said the facility’s management has been directed to carry out comprehensive corrective measures, including a technical assessment of the boiler, necessary repairs or upgrades, and the development of an effective emission-mitigation plan. The facility is also required to submit regular progress reports and will be subjected to routine inspections.
He emphasized that the facility will only be reopened after full compliance has been verified by the Ministry’s compliance monitoring team and all unsealing procedures duly completed.
Reaffirming the state government’s commitment to environmental protection and public health, the Commissioner warned that all individuals and businesses operating in Oyo State must strictly adhere to environmental laws, adding that defaulters will face the full weight of the law.
No comments