The Ebonyi State Government has taken a firm stance against indiscriminate waste disposal by imposing a fine of N50,000 on offenders.
This decision aims to combat the growing problem of refuse dumping and was announced in a press release from Mr. Reuben Okorie, Head of Public Relations at the Ministry of Environment, made available to journalists on Tuesday in Abakaliki.
In the statement, the government urged residents to properly bag their waste and dispose of it only at designated dump sites and waste bins between the hours of 5 AM and 8 PM. The initiative reflects the government’s commitment to maintaining a clean and green environment in Abakaliki, the state capital.
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The press release emphasized that all waste generated from homes, businesses, schools, churches, hotels, eateries, and other public places must be disposed of at approved sites during specified hours. It strictly prohibits dumping waste on road medians or any unapproved locations within the capital city.
To enforce compliance with this directive, Environmental Marshals will be deployed to apprehend individuals caught disposing of waste improperly. Offenders will face either a hefty fine or prosecution in the Ebonyi State Environmental Sanitation Court.
The government also called on residents to support Governor Francis Nwifuru’s administration in its efforts to create a healthy and conducive environment for all citizens.
This initiative underscores the importance of community involvement in environmental cleanliness and aims to foster a culture of responsible waste management among residents.