By Abbas Nazil
The Ogun State Government has introduced a new enforcement strategy that replaces monetary fines with community service for residents caught dumping refuse on roadways, aiming to promote cleaner urban spaces and reduce financial burdens on citizens.
Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, announced the development while addressing the Governor’s Elders Advisory Council during its fourth quarterly meeting in Abeokuta, emphasizing that dumping waste on roads is illegal and unacceptable.
He explained that residents must place their refuse in front of their homes for direct pickup by Private Sector Participants, noting that streets are not designated dump sites and offenders will now be arrested and corrected through supervised community service.
Oresanya said the new approach reflects Governor Dapo Abiodun’s concern for environmental sustainability, adding that major investments are underway to acquire new waste management equipment for both the state-owned OGWAMA and private waste operators.
He stated that arrested offenders will sweep roads and collect refuse as corrective measures, stressing that public visibility of such sanctions will deter violations and encourage responsible waste disposal habits across communities.
On noise pollution, Oresanya disclosed that the ministry has shut several religious and commercial facilities for violating noise regulations, urging citizens to report disturbances via a dedicated helpline: 09010480056.
He added that sanitation should be a daily routine, pointing out that the Constitution empowers Local Government Health Officers to inspect homes, monitor waste bins, and prosecute households that fail to comply with environmental standards.
The commissioner also revealed that ministry safety consultants are inspecting gas plants statewide to ensure adherence to safety rules, warning that substandard facilities will be closed to prevent hazards.
Stakeholders at the meeting welcomed the ministry’s interventions, with Chief Iyabo Apampa calling for action on air pollution and indiscriminate trailer parking around industrial zones in Ibese and Papalanto.
Hon. Samuel Olubunmi Dada urged sanitary officers to intensify their duties and encouraged residents to prioritize cleanliness for community well-being.
Chairman of the advisory council, Chief Olu Okuboyejo, commended the government’s efforts in waste management and described the 2026 Budget of Sustainable Legacy as a promising blueprint for growth and development in the coming year.
