May 08, (THEWILL) — The Ogun State Waste Management Authority (OGWAMA), on Friday, arrested 45 residents in different parts of Abeokuta over improper waste disposal.
The suspects were arrested in the Panseke, Quarry Road, and Kolobo areas for allegedly dumping refuse along roads, highways, and other public spaces, contrary to the state’s environmental regulations.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on OGWAMA, Mr Farook Akintunde, condemned the act, noting that indiscriminate waste disposal tarnishes the beauty of the state capital and contributes to the spread of diseases, especially airborne infections.
Akintunde, while addressing the offenders before the commencement of their community service punishment, explained that poor waste management pollutes underground water sources and endangers public health.
He expressed disappointment that residents still engage in such practices despite continuous awareness campaigns across various media platforms warning against illegal refuse dumping.
The SA urged residents to make use of government-approved waste collectors operating within their communities, after offenders pleaded for leniency and signed undertakings to avoid repeating the offence.
He warned that repeat offenders would face prosecution in line with the state’s environmental laws.
“I want to warn residents across the state who are still involved in indiscriminate waste disposal to stop immediately or face strict penalties”, he stated.
