The Ogun State chapter of the Freelance and Independent Broadcasters’ Association of Nigeria has commended the state government for intensifying its crackdown on environmental offenders, following the arrest and prosecution of 108 violators across Abeokuta and other parts of the state.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Chief Olalekan Shoyinka, on Thursday, the association described the action as a bold step towards restoring environmental sanity and public hygiene.
The arrests were carried out by the state government through the Ministry of Environment and the Ogun State Waste Management Authority, with the Special Adviser on OGWAMA, Alhaji Farook Akintunde, noting that the enforcement targeted individuals engaged in indiscriminate dumping of refuse in unauthorised locations.
FIBAN said the move underscored the government’s renewed commitment to enforcing environmental laws and promoting a cleaner and healthier environment.
“The enforcement of existing environmental regulations against indiscriminate waste disposal on roadsides, medians and other public spaces is not only commendable but necessary to safeguard public health and urban aesthetics,” the statement read.
While applauding the initiative, the association called on local government authorities to complement the state’s efforts by setting up functional waste disposal support teams to enhance refuse collection at the grassroots.
It noted that such structures would improve access to waste management services and encourage residents to comply with sanitation regulations.
FIBAN also cautioned residents against illegal dumping of refuse, describing the practice as unlawful and detrimental to public wellbeing.
According to the association, indiscriminate waste disposal contributes to flooding, environmental degradation and contamination of water sources, especially during the rainy season.
It urged residents to patronise government-approved waste collectors, properly package their waste, and avoid dumping refuse in drainage channels, roadsides and other unauthorised locations.
The association further encouraged the public to cooperate with relevant authorities and fulfil their civic obligation by paying for waste management services.
“Environmental cleanliness is a shared responsibility. While the government provides the framework and enforcement, sustainable progress depends largely on the attitude and cooperation of the people,” the statement added.
FIBAN reiterated its call for collective action, stressing that achieving a clean and healthy Ogun State requires the commitment of both the government and residents.
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