The Ogun State Government has issued a strong warning against the growing trend of indiscriminate refuse disposal in markets, drainages, streets, and other unauthorized locations, stressing that offenders now face stiff fines and possible imprisonment.
The caution was delivered on Monday by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Waste Management, Hon. Abayomi Hunye, who expressed concern over the increasing environmental pollution recorded across the state in recent weeks. According to him, many market users and residents have continued to dump waste carelessly, contributing to widespread filth and posing serious health risks.
Hunye reminded the public of the provisions of the Ogun State Waste Management Authority Law (2020), which clearly outlines penalties for environmental violations. Section 34(1) of the law stipulates that any individual who breaches its regulations commits an offense and, upon arrest, must pay an immediate penalty of ₦25,000 to the Authority. Failure to comply may lead to prosecution, where offenders risk fines of up to ₦2 million, imprisonment for up to three months, or both.
“The Ogun State Government can no longer tolerate the harmful practice of indiscriminate waste dumping,” the statement read. “All approved markets have designated waste disposal points and containers, yet many people continue to dispose of refuse irresponsibly, endangering public health.”
The government emphasized that it will henceforth enforce the law rigorously to restore orderliness and ensure a cleaner, healthier environment across the state.