The Oyo State Government has issued a stern warning to residents and stakeholders in the Sabo community and its environs to stop dumping refuse and waste on median roads or face legal action.
Honourable Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Hon. Abdulmojeed Mogbonjubola, announced this during an environmental advocacy program titled “Operation Keep Sabo Clean”, held in the Sabo area of Ibadan.
Mogbonjubola emphasized the urgent need to tackle the menace of indiscriminate waste disposal, which poses serious health risks. “Dumping waste on median roads is a major issue. We have successfully tackled this problem in most parts of Ibadan, but Sabo has remained a challenge,” he said.
He recalled a crucial meeting with the Sabo Council of Elders, which changed his perception of the community’s commitment to cleanliness. “After several discussions, we launched ‘Operation Keep Sabo Clean: Together Green’ to drive this initiative forward,” he explained.
The commissioner noted that waste management is not free anywhere in the world, urging residents to comply with proper disposal practices. He revealed that designated waste consultants serve Ibadan North and that two large skip bins have been provided to ease waste collection in Sabo.
“Our sweepers will monitor the bins, and once they are full, collection will be arranged immediately,” he assured. He also warned that anyone caught dumping waste illegally would face arrest and prosecution, stressing that “a clean nation is a wealthy nation.”
Representing the Seriki Hausawa of Ibadan, Alhaji Dikko Mohammed commended the state government for its efforts in promoting environmental sanitation. He pledged the community’s full cooperation in ensuring a cleaner Sabo.
Malam Mamman, the chairman of the event, described the initiative as historic, applauding the commissioner for engaging various stakeholders, including six youth groups, to develop a sustainable sanitation plan.
“The people of Sabo are tired of living in filth. That’s why we’ve come together to put an end to this problem,” he said.
Alhaji Danjuma Garba, the Chief Security Officer of Sabo, emphasized the importance of cleanliness, citing religious teachings that encourage hygiene. “Cleanliness is next to godliness. We must maintain a healthy environment,” he said, urging the government to continue its support.
Hon. Kazim Adeyinka Adeniyi (Bibire), Member House of Representatives Aspirant for Ibadan North Federal Constituency, also lauded the initiative, urging residents to take responsibility. “If you see something wrong, report it to the authorities. Keeping Sabo clean is a collective duty, not just the government’s responsibility,” he said.
Baale Okesu, Alhaji Dauda Oni, praised the state government for fostering peace and healthy coexistence in Sabo.
The event marked a significant step toward a cleaner and healthier environment for Sabo residents, with all stakeholders pledging continued support for the “Operation Keep Sabo Clean” campaign.
Meanwhile, Oyo State Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Hon. Abdulmojeed Mogbonjubola, has expressed strong disapproval of traders displaying their goods on roads, obstructing traffic, and endangering public safety.
Hon. Mogbonjubola made this disapproval known through the General Manager, Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA), Mr. Adeoye Ayoade, during a monitoring exercise across several markets in Ibadan, including Baba Onilu, Iwo Road; Anajere Market, Academy Iwo Road; Iyana Church, Montana; Oje Market; and Oja Oba.
The commissioner emphasized that ensuring road safety remains a top priority. He condemned the practice of market men and women setting up stalls directly on the road, causing unnecessary congestion and posing risks to motorists and pedestrians.
Hon. Mogbonjubola stressed that the government has designated specific areas for traders and expects them to comply. He warned that anyone caught obstructing the road, whether by displaying goods, parking carelessly, or setting up illegal structures, will face legal consequences. The state has a tribunal court dedicated to handling such offenses, and violators will be prosecuted accordingly.