By Dare Akogun
In an effort to maintain a clean and healthy environment conducive for all residents, the Kwara State Government has inaugurated an Environmental Taskforce tasked with enforcing compliance with environmental laws throughout the state.
The Commissioner for Environment, Mallam Shehu Ndanusa Usman speaking at the event stated that the goal is to ensure a sanitary environment and curtail deforestation across the state.
He said ministry has carried out extensive efforts in sensitizing traditional rulers, marketers, and other stakeholders about the necessity for strict adherence to the State Environmental laws.
He announced that starting from the first week of February, any marketers found displaying goods in areas that hinder the free movement of vehicles or pedestrians will face the confiscation of their goods.
Hon Usman also outlined penalties for environmental violations, stating that indiscriminate dumping of refuse on pedestrian paths or unauthorized dump sites would result in a fine of N50,000 for individuals and N200,000 for corporate organizations or imprisonment.
He thereafter issued a stern warning to potential violators, emphasizing that anyone caught engaging in prohibited activities such as selling goods on pedestrian or road medians, indiscriminate refuse disposal, deforestation, and charcoal production would be promptly arrested and prosecuted.
He urged Taskforce members, including Environmental Health Officers, Forestry Officers, Nigerian Police, Nigerian Civil Defense, KWARTMA, KWEPA, National Youth Council, among others, to demonstrate unwavering commitment to the assigned task.
The Permanent Secretary Hajia Afusat Ibrahim, commended the Commissioner’s initiative in forming the taskforce, recognizing its importance in complementing the ministry’s ongoing efforts to foster a clean and healthy environment in Kwara State.
