The Freelance and Independent Broadcasters’ Association of Nigeria (FIBAN), Ogun State Chapter on Thursday commended Ogun State Government, for demonstrating renewed commitment to environmental sanitation with the arrest and timely prosecution of 108 environmental offenders across Abeokuta and other parts of the state.
Penpushing reports that it would be recalled that the Ministry of Environment and the Ogun State Waste Management Authority (OGWAMA), in a statement disclosed it arrested and prosecuted 108 environmental offenders.
The broadcasters in a statement of commendation issued by the chairman Chief Olalekan Shoyinka said the decisive action by the agency was a clear indication that the present administration is determined to restore sanity, cleanliness and environmental discipline across Ogun State.
‘The enforcement of existing environmental laws against indiscriminate dumping of refuse on roadsides, medians and other public spaces is not only commendable but necessary to safeguard public health and urban aesthetics’, the statement read.
Penpushing further reports that Shoyinka popularly called Ayinla Egba while applauding this bold step urged all local government administrators across the state to complement the efforts of the State Government by establishing functional and responsive waste disposal support teams within their jurisdictions.
The statement emphasized that these teams will play a vital role in assisting residents with proper waste evacuation, ensuring accessibility and promoting compliance at the grassroots level.
‘We also use this medium to enlighten the general public that indiscriminate waste disposal is not only unlawful but a reflection of poor environmental culture. Dumping refuse in public places, especially on roads, is outdated, uncivilized and detrimental to our collective wellbeing’.
Penpushing also reports that the statement added that such practices contribute to flooding, environmental degradation and the contamination of water sources, particularly during the rainy season.
‘Residents are therefore strongly advised to patronize only government-approved waste collectors (PSP operators) assigned to their areas. Properly bag and store waste before disposal to prevent littering and environmental hazards’.
Penpushing further reports that the body tasked residents to avoid dumping refuse in drainage channels, roadsides and unauthorized locations, cooperate with government agencies and be willing to pay for waste management services as part of civic responsibility, as well as report illegal dumping activities to appropriate authorities for prompt action.
‘FIBAN Ogun State reiterates that environmental cleanliness is a shared responsibility. Government can only provide structure and enforcement, but lasting change depends on the cooperation and attitude of the people. Let us all rise to the occasion and take ownership of our environment. A clean Ogun State is not only desirable but achievable if we act responsibly and collectively’, Shoyinka added
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