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Oyo govt arrests 19 illegal scavengers in Ibadan metropolis
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Offenders fined, prosecuted for environmental violations in Oyo
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Food processing facility sealed over air pollution concerns
The Oyo State Government has arrested no fewer than 19 illegal scavengers across parts of the Ibadan metropolis as part of efforts to curb environmental degradation and infrastructure vandalism.
The arrests were carried out by the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources following a 24-hour surveillance operation targeting illegal scavenging activities, popularly referred to as BOLA.
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The Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Ademola Aderinto, disclosed this on Wednesday while speaking with journalists in his office.
Aderinto said the operation was aimed at improving public safety, protecting critical infrastructure, and promoting environmental sustainability in the state.
He noted that the arrested individuals have since been prosecuted and fined in line with existing environmental laws, adding that penalties vary depending on the severity of the offences committed.
According to the commissioner, sanctions include fines ranging from ₦20,000 to ₦50,000, community service, and possible jail terms for more serious violations.
Aderinto stressed that the Ministry is statutorily mandated to ensure a clean and safe environment, warning that unregulated scavenging has contributed to environmental degradation and rising insecurity in parts of the state.
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He reiterated that open scavenging is prohibited under Oyo State environmental regulations and assured that the government would continue to identify, arrest, and prosecute offenders.
The commissioner also appealed to residents to support government efforts by complying with environmental laws and refraining from obstructing enforcement officers during operations.
In a related development, Aderinto revealed that the Ministry has sealed a food processing facility located within a residential area in Wofun, Ibadan, over environmental violations.
He said the facility’s boiler was found to be emitting excessive carbon soot, contributing to air pollution and posing serious health risks to residents in the surrounding community.
According to him, the management of the facility has been directed to carry out corrective actions, including a technical assessment of the boiler, necessary repairs or upgrades, and the submission of a comprehensive mitigation plan.
He added that the Ministry will conduct routine inspections and require regular progress reports to ensure full compliance before the facility is allowed to resume operations.