The Ogun State Government has issued a stern warning to illegal occupants in its forest reserves, particularly at Area J3 in Ijebu-East Local Government Area.
The government demanded that they vacate the premises immediately,saying the directive is aimed at protecting the state’s natural resources and prevent unauthorised sales of government land.
The Commissioner for Forestry,Taiwo Oludotun, conveyed this directive during a fact-finding visit to the reserves.
He emphasised that individuals or groups without legitimate business within the forest reserves would not be tolerated.
Oludotun said the government’s commitment to safeguarding these areas from criminal activities and maintaining proper management.
“The Ogun State government will not fold its arms and allow people who do not have business in this reserve to stay.
“ Those harbouring criminals should desist as the government is ready to take drastic action against any culprit,” Oludotun warned.
The Commissioner announced that identity cards and other means of identification would be mandatory for all legitimate occupants to ensure better monitoring and control.
He instructed Forestry officials to compile comprehensive data on residents, including gender, occupation, and state of origin, and submit it to the ministry headquarters promptly.
During the visit, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Timothy Olatunji, called on local Baales (traditional rulers) to contribute to the preservation of the reserves by encouraging tree planting throughout the year.
He assured that while farmers are allowed to cultivate crops such as cassava and maize, these activities must not compromise the existing tree population.
The government, he added, would support farmers by providing seedlings to promote sustainable agricultural practices.
Chief Adewale Aderinwale, representing the Baales, expressed gratitude to the Commissioner and the ministry’s team for their visit and assured them of the local community’s cooperation.
The visit concluded with a symbolic tree planting exercise at Aba Ekiti, where the Commissioner, Permanent Secretary, and other management staff planted trees to mark the state’s commitment to environmental conservation.
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