Environmental Offences: Ogun Local Government Launches Crackdown On Defiant Shop Owners

Chairman of the Local Government, Olusola Akinbode, expressed deep disappointment at the level of environmental neglect observed during an inspection of the market. He noted that several traders were operating in clear defiance of established rules and guidelines.

According to Akinbode, the Department of Water Resources and Environmental Sanitation (WES), tasked with overseeing market hygiene and compliance, would intensify its enforcement efforts, and defaulters would face appropriate sanctions.

He emphasized that affected shop owners had been issued multiple warnings and provided with an action plan for compliance, yet they persistently ignored the directives.

“The administration of Governor Dapo Abiodun supports traders across Ogun State, but will not tolerate actions that violate environmental laws,” Akinbode said. “Several shop owners have repeatedly disregarded regulations and failed to pay rent as required, which breaches the council’s operational framework.”

The council chairman also criticized the traders for their neglect of drainage systems, warning that such carelessness could lead to flooding during the rainy season.

He stressed that the council would not allow irresponsible behavior to endanger public safety, especially when the state government has provided vital infrastructure and a business-friendly environment intended to attract and support investors.