The Kwara State Government has prohibited scavengers from operating in Ilorin metropolis and introduced an Environmental Taskforce to enforce new environmental strategies and guidelines. The move aims to eradicate indiscriminate dumping of refuse in the state.
Environment Commissioner Hajia Nafisat Buge announced that over 300 environmental task force officers will conduct 24-hour surveillance and enforcement in 70 designated locations. Offenders will face penalties ranging from N50,000 to N500,000 fines and up to six months imprisonment. Community service is also an option.
The task force comprises environmental volunteers, security personnel, and other stakeholders. The government has engaged in sensitization activities with various groups, receiving support from traditional leaders and other stakeholders.
The commissioner emphasized the importance of cooperation and support to maintain a clean and healthy environment, stressing that indiscriminate waste dumping is a menace that requires urgent attention.