Ekiti State’s unwavering commitment to environmental sanitation took center stage during the July monthly exercise, resulting in the arrest and prosecution of 90 offenders. This robust enforcement underscores the government’s dedication to maintaining a clean and healthy environment for its residents. Mrs. Tosin Aluko-Ajisafe, the Commissioner for Environment, expressed strong condemnation for a commercial driver who interfered with the legal process by intercepting a patrol vehicle transporting arrested offenders to court and forcefully releasing them. This act of defiance highlights the challenges faced by enforcement teams and the need for greater cooperation from all stakeholders, including transport unions.
The Commissioner, while monitoring the exercise in Ado Ekiti, emphasized the importance of individual responsibility in upholding environmental hygiene. She appealed to residents to prioritize their well-being by avoiding unsanitary practices that could jeopardize their health. The 90 individuals apprehended during the exercise faced prosecution in accordance with established environmental laws. This decisive action demonstrates the government’s resolve to enforce regulations and deter future violations. It also serves as a clear message that environmental sanitation is a priority and that non-compliance will not be tolerated.
Aluko-Ajisafe specifically called upon the leadership of commercial drivers and motorcycle operator associations to exert influence over their members, urging them to respect the sanitation exercise and adhere to the prescribed laws and regulations. The Commissioner highlighted the disruptive behavior of certain transport union members, which hinders the effectiveness of enforcement teams in carrying out their duties. She appealed for collaboration between the government and transport operators, emphasizing the shared goal of creating a clean and healthy environment for all.
Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s significant investments in maintaining Ekiti State’s cleanliness were also acknowledged by the Commissioner. This commitment from the highest level of government underscores the importance placed on environmental sanitation. The Commissioner reiterated the need for collective responsibility and public support, particularly from transport operators, in achieving the government’s environmental goals. This collaborative approach seeks to foster a sense of shared ownership and responsibility for maintaining a clean and healthy environment.
Mr. Tunde Balogun, the acting Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, echoed the Commissioner’s sentiments, emphasizing the crucial role of collective responsibility in effective environmental management. He assured the public of the government’s continued engagement with transport unions to foster better understanding and compliance with environmental regulations. This ongoing dialogue aims to bridge the gap between enforcement efforts and the cooperation of transport operators, ultimately contributing to a more harmonious and effective sanitation program.
The July environmental sanitation exercise in Ekiti State exemplifies the government’s steadfast dedication to maintaining a clean and healthy environment. The arrest and prosecution of offenders, coupled with the ongoing dialogue with transport unions, underscore a multifaceted approach to addressing environmental challenges. This strategy combines stringent enforcement with community engagement, aiming to foster a culture of responsibility and shared ownership in preserving the environment for the well-being of all residents. The incident involving the commercial driver highlights the need for continuing education and collaboration to ensure the success of future sanitation initiatives.
