The Oyo State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources has stepped up its enforcement of environmental sanitation laws, leading to the arrest of eight offenders for illegally disposing of refuse on the road median across different parts of the state.
The arrests were made during a recent environmental enforcement operation carried out by the Environmental Task Force Team, led by Environmental Health Officers attached to the Ministry. The offenders were subsequently arraigned before Justice Agbefarin at the Environmental Court sitting in Ibadan.
Their actions contravened the Oyo State Environmental Sanitation and Waste Management Regulation, which strictly prohibits the dumping of refuse on unauthorized public spaces such as road medians, drainages, and other restricted areas.
In line with the law, the offenders were fined ₦40,000 each for violating the state’s environmental sanitation regulations.
Speaking on the development, the Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining a clean, safe, and healthy environment for all residents. It further appealed to members of the public to cooperate with government efforts aimed at promoting environmental hygiene and public health.
“The cleanliness of our environment is a shared responsibility. We appeal to residents to make proper use of government-approved waste bins and patronize only registered waste collectors. The Ministry will continue to enforce environmental laws without fear or favor,” the statement read.
The Ministry also emphasized that the present administration under Governor Seyi Makinde remains resolute in ensuring an environment that supports healthy living, drives economic growth, and enhances the overall well-being of the people.
