The Ogun State Government has introduced a new approach to tackle the issue of indiscriminate dumping of refuse on roads, with offenders set to face arrest, correction, and community service. Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Ola Oresanya, announced this during a meeting with the Governor’s Elders Advisory Council, emphasizing that the law prohibits dumping refuse on roadways.
According to Oresanya, residents are expected to place their refuse in front of their homes for collection by Private Sector Participants (PSPs). The state government is shifting its enforcement strategy from monetary fines to community service to reduce financial pressure on citizens. Offenders will be required to undertake community service, such as sweeping roads and collecting refuse, to serve as a deterrent.
The government’s efforts to improve waste management include investing in new equipment for the Ministry of Environment and procuring brand-new trucks for OGWAMA and the private waste sector. Governor Dapo Abiodun has also approved the procurement of new trucks to enhance waste management across the state.
In addition to addressing waste management, the ministry has cracked down on noise pollution, shutting several religious centers and facilities found to be violating noise regulations. Residents can report noise disturbances through a dedicated helpline. The commissioner emphasized that sanitation should be a daily responsibility, citing Section 6 of the Constitution, which empowers Local Government Health Officers to inspect homes and prosecute erring households.
The ministry is also inspecting gas plants across the state to ensure compliance with safety standards, with substandard facilities set to be shut down. The government’s efforts have been commended by the Governor’s Elders Advisory Council, which described the 2026 Budget of Sustainable Legacy as a well-structured roadmap for a prosperous new year.
The state government’s initiatives aim to promote environmental sustainability and public health, with a focus on community service and education. By addressing waste management, noise pollution, and safety standards, the government seeks to create a cleaner and healthier environment for its residents. The introduction of community service as a punishment for dumping refuse on roads serves as a reminder of the importance of individual responsibility in maintaining a clean and sustainable environment.