The Edo State Environmental Taskforce, in collaboration with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), arrested no fewer than 50 individuals on Saturday for allegedly flouting the state’s environmental sanitation laws.
The arrests took place in Egor Local Government Area during a large-scale monitoring exercise led by the newly appointed NSCDC State Commandant, Mr. Saidi Akintayo. The operation extended across several strategic locations in Benin City, including Third East Circular Road Junction, Sapele Road, Ekiosa Market, Siloko Road, Ugbowo, and New Benin Market.
A Renewed Drive for Environmental Compliance
Commandant Akintayo explained that the exercise was part of efforts to enforce compliance with the Edo State Government’s monthly environmental sanitation directive. He stressed that the initiative aligns with the corps’ broader mission to support both federal and state governments in maintaining a clean, safe, and healthy environment.
“A clean environment is a healthy environment. It is our collective duty as citizens to ensure that our surroundings are kept clean at all times,” Akintayo said.
“The corps will continue to support government efforts by enforcing compliance and sensitising the public on the importance of environmental hygiene.” he added.
Residents Join the Clean-Up
During the operation, residents and traders were seen actively participating in sanitation activities—sweeping drains, clearing refuse, and tidying up their premises. Akintayo described the level of community involvement as “encouraging,” noting that such cooperation was vital to sustaining environmental reforms.
Offenders Arraigned Before Mobile Court
Following the arrests, the 50 suspected offenders were taken to the Egor Local Government Secretariat, where they were arraigned before a mobile court. The Executive Chairman of Egor LGA, Mr. Osaro Eribo, received the NSCDC team and commended the synergy between local authorities, the environmental taskforce, and security agencies.
Akintayo emphasized that the corps remains committed to enforcing environmental laws, supporting public health initiatives, and maintaining peace and order across Edo State.
“Our presence underscores the Corps’ unwavering commitment to protecting lives, property, and the environment. We will continue to stand with the government to ensure Edo remains clean and safe for all,” he added.
Local Government Response
In a related development, the Chairman of Oredo Local Government, Mr. Gabriel Idusere, who also joined the monitoring exercise, praised residents for their cooperation. However, he acknowledged public concerns about delays in refuse evacuation.
Idusere assured that the council had already put in place measures to improve waste collection, particularly in markets and densely populated areas, to complement the sanitation enforcement drive.
