The Oyo State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, has intensified its environmental enforcement efforts across Ibadan metropolis with the commencement of a 24-hour surveillance operation to curb scavenging activities.
The Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Mr Ademola Aderinto, while addressing newsmen on Wednesday in Ibadan, explained that the action is targeted at regulating activities of metal scavengers, in order to prevent infrastructure vandalism.
The commissioner added that the exercise which also led to the sealing of a food processing facility for environmental violations aimed at enhancing public safety and promote environmental sustainability across the state.
Aderinto reiterated that the ministry has a statutory responsibility to keep the state clean and free from activities that pose environmental and public health hazards.
He further stated that unchecked scavenging has contributed to environmental degradation and insecurity in some parts of the state.
He emphasised that open scavenging is prohibited in Oyo State, with the assurance that government would not relent in its resolve to identify, arrest and prosecute offenders in line with existing environmental laws.
According to him, violators are liable to penalties including fines ranging from N20,000 to N50,000, community service and possible jail terms, depending on the severity of the offence.
“As part of the ongoing enforcement drive, a total of 19 illegal scavengers apprehended within Ibadan metropolis have been prosecuted and fined accordingly based on their respective offences.
“The ministry has also sealed a food processing facility located within a residential area at Wofun, Ibadan, following findings that its boiler was emitting excessive carbon soot, thereby contributing to air pollution and posing serious health risks to residents of the surrounding community.
“Investigation by officials of the ministry revealed that the level of emissions from the facility was in clear contravention of established environmental standards and guidelines.
“Consequently, the ministry ordered the immediate sealing of the facility to prevent further environmental degradation and safeguard public health,”he said.
Aderinto disclosed that the management of the facility had been directed to undertake comprehensive corrective measures, including a technical assessment of the boiler, necessary repairs or upgrades to eliminate harmful emissions and the development of an effective mitigation plan.
The commissioner further stated that the facility has also been mandated to submit regular progress reports, while routine inspections would be conducted to monitor compliance.
He stressed that the facility would only be reopened after full compliance has been verified by the ministry’s monitoring team and all unsealing procedures duly followed.
Aderinto reaffirmed government’s unwavering commitment to environmental protection, public health and the preservation of public assets.
He, however, warned that all individuals and businesses operating within the state must adhere strictly to environmental laws and regulations.
He called on members of the public to cooperate with government and desist from obstructing law enforcement officers in the discharge of their lawful duties.
