The Oyo State Government, through the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, says it has arrested no fewer than 19 illegal scavengers within Ibadan metropolis.
Commissioner for the Ministry, Ademola Aderinto, disclosed this during an interview held in his office on Wednesday.
Aderinto stated that the arrests followed a 24-hour surveillance operation to curb illegal scavenging activities, popularly known as “BOLA,” in order to prevent infrastructure vandalism, enhance public safety, and promote environmental sustainability across the state.
He added that the violators have been prosecuted and fined accordingly based on their respective offences.
According to the commissioner, they are liable to penalties including fines ranging from ₦20,000 to ₦50,000, community service, and possible jail terms, depending on the severity of the offence.
Aderinto reaffirmed that the Ministry is legally obligated to keep Oyo State clean and free from activities that endanger public health and the environment, pointing out that unregulated scavenging has led to environmental deterioration and insecurity in some areas of the state.
In accordance with current environmental regulations, he underlined that open scavenging is forbidden in Oyo State and promised that the government will not back down in its determination to identify, arrest, and prosecute violators.
He, however, urged residents to cooperate with government efforts and desist from obstructing law enforcement officers in the discharge of their lawful duties.
In a related development, the commissioner disclosed that the Ministry has sealed a food processing facility located within a residential area at Wofun, Ibadan, following findings that its boiler was emitting excessive carbon soot into the environment.
According to him, this contributes to air pollution and poses serious health risks to residents of the surrounding community.
Aderinto added that the management of the facility has 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 facility is also required to submit regular progress reports, while routine inspections will be conducted to monitor compliance.
