OYO GOVT ARRESTS 19 ILLEGAL SCAVENGERS, SHUTS DOWN FOOD FACILITY
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By: Balogun Ibrahim
The Oyo State Government, acting through its Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, says it has arrested at least 19 illegal scavengers known locally as “BOLA” in a 24‑hour surveillance operation across the Ibadan metropolis, aimed at curbing infrastructure vandalism, enhancing public safety and promoting environmental sustainability, Commissioner Ademola Aderinto said in his office on Wednesday.
The ministry also sealed a food processing facility in a residential area for environmental violations, and the suspects have been prosecuted and fined according to their offences.
The Oyo Environment Commissioner Says Violators Face Fines, Community Service or Jail as Government Enforces Anti‑Scavenging Laws.
According to Commissioner Ademola Aderinto, those caught engaging in illegal scavenging activities can be punished with fines from ₦20,000 to ₦50,000, community service obligations or even possible imprisonment, depending on the severity of the offence.
He reiterated the ministry’s legal duty to keep Oyo State clean and protect public health and the environment, noting that unregulated scavenging has contributed to environmental degradation and insecurity in parts of the state.
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OYO GOVT ARRESTS 19 ILLEGAL SCAVENGERS, SHUTS DOWN FOOD FACILITY
Under existing environmental regulations, Aderinto emphasised that open scavenging is prohibited and vowed that the government will continue to identify, arrest and prosecute offenders to uphold environmental laws.
Commissioner Ademola Aderinto urged residents to support government efforts and refrain from obstructing law enforcement agents carrying out their legal duties in the state’s crackdown on environmental offences.
He also disclosed that the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources has sealed a food processing plant in the Wofun area of Ibadan after discovering its boiler was emitting excessive carbon soot, contributing to air pollution and posing serious health risks to nearby communities.
The facility’s management has been ordered to carry out a full technical assessment of its operations, implement necessary repairs or upgrades to eliminate harmful emissions, and submit regular progress updates, with routine inspections to ensure compliance before the site can be reopened.
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