Over 400 offenders caught and penalized by sanitation task force.

The Kwara state Environmental Sanitation Task Force has intensified its enforcement efforts, resulting in the conviction and fining of more than 400 individuals for non-compliance with sanitation regulations.

The State Commissioner for Environment, Hajia Nafisat Musa Buge, disclosed this while speaking to journalists after the environmental sanitation exercise conducted across the state over the weekend.

The Commissioner, who led the task force, stated that “the exercise was successful because there is an improvement in the level of compliance.” She called for greater adherence to environmental laws, emphasizing that this is in the best interest of the public.

According to Buge, the offenders were caught and prosecuted in 17 mobile courts strategically located throughout the city.

She added, “The good aspect is that none of the offenders can feign ignorance of today’s sanitation exercise, as there was ample sensitization by the ministry on radio, newspapers, and online platforms. It is clear they willfully flouted the laws and were thus made to face the full consequences to serve as a deterrent to others.”

The Commissioner is hopeful that the penalties imposed on offenders during this operation will serve as deterrent to prevent future violations.

Regarding the sanitation hours, the Commissioner reiterated that they are “in line with Section 29 (2) CAP E4 of the 2006 state Environmental Sanitation Law, which stipulates that sanitation hours are from 7:00 am to 10:00 am.”

She added that this measure is essential to put an end to rampant littering and prevent the spread of diseases. “The sanitation exercise must be taken seriously and conducted in accordance with the laws governing our state,” she added.

The Commissioner praised the Guild of Yoruba Media Practitioners for their community service in Gaa Akanbi, encouraging them to sustain their efforts and inspiring other group to follow their lead in promoting healthier living.

She appealed to the public to continue cooperating with the law enforcement agencies and government to ensure a clean, safe, and healthy Kwara for residents and potential investors.