The Oyo State Government, through the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, has sealed some residential and commercial complexes within the Ibadan metropolis for engaging illegal waste collectors, failing to comply with environmental regulations, and operating without registration with approved Private Sector Participants (PSP) waste collectors.
The State Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Hon. Ademola Aderinto, stated this during an inspection tour within the Ibadan metropolis.
Hon. Aderinto explained that the exercise was in line with the directive of the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, to ensure a clean, healthy, and business-friendly environment across the state.
“Our mandate is clear: to keep Oyo State clean, promote sound public health, enhance productivity, and create an environment that attracts investments and development. That is the reason for today’s enforcement,” the Commissioner said.
He lamented that Oyo State, widely known as the Pacesetter State, must continue to justify that title through lawful conduct, cleanliness, and environmental responsibility, rather than being associated with disorder and environmental degradation.
According to him, the inspection team visited Bodija, Sango, Eleyele, and Ologuneru, where it was discovered that several facilities lacked waste disposal containers, failed to cooperate with accredited PSP operators, or were completely unregistered with waste collectors.
The Commissioner expressed concern that some facility owners were conniving with illegal waste collectors who dispose of refuse indiscriminately in open spaces instead of approved landfill sites, thereby creating environmental hazards and public health risks.
“These illegal collectors collect cheap fees and dump waste in unauthorized locations, causing serious environmental and health challenges. This will no longer be tolerated. Anything that tarnishes the image of Oyo State or undermines the efforts of this administration will be firmly resisted,” he warned.
Hon. Aderinto further cautioned illegal waste collectors to desist from the practice, declaring that the government would no longer condone such activities. He also urged residents and facility managers facing challenges with PSP operators to report to the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources or the Oyo State Solid Waste Management Authority for prompt intervention.
He revealed that some PSP operators were disengaged on the same day for colluding with individuals to violate waste management regulations, stressing that strict sanctions would continue against any operator found culpable.
“If you encounter any issue regarding waste collection or compliance, come to the Ministry. We will guide you appropriately and take necessary action where required. Environmental laws in Oyo State must be obeyed,” the Commissioner concluded.