The Nasarawa State Government has vowed to arrest and prosecute hawkers and other individuals caught dumping refuse around the newly inaugurated Lafia flyover and underpass.
Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Princess Margaret Elayo, made this known in Lafia while briefing journalists after the July environmental sanitation exercise.
Represented by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Hussaini Baba-Yayi, the Commissioner warned that the government would not tolerate any act that undermines efforts to maintain a clean and aesthetically pleasing environment.
She also cautioned motorists to provide refuse baskets or trash cans in their vehicles for passengers to dispose of waste properly, noting that designated collection points would be available for safe disposal.
Elayo emphasized that the administration of Governor Abdullahi Sule attaches great importance to environmental sanitation, as it plays a vital role in promoting public health and sustainable living.
She further urged residents to desist from dumping waste in drains and building structures on waterways, warning that the government would not hesitate to demolish any illegal structures obstructing water channels to prevent flooding.
“The government will not hesitate to pull down any structure built on waterways in order to prevent avoidable loss of lives and property due to flooding,” she said.
The Commissioner also pledged to intensify public awareness campaigns on the dangers of improper waste disposal and the importance of keeping the environment clean.
She decried the habit of dumping large volumes of waste on the streets, describing it as unacceptable and warned that violators would face stiff penalties when apprehended.
On the July sanitation exercise, Elayo expressed dissatisfaction with the level of compliance among residents and appealed for greater cooperation.
“If the environment is kept clean, it will guard against the possible outbreak of diseases and ensure healthier living for all,” she added.
She reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to making Nasarawa one of the cleanest states in Nigeria, in line with its mandate to promote a safe and healthy environment.
Olusola Akintonde